SIMANGGANG: Deputy Premier, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, arrived here today for an official working visit to review the progress of two major bridge projects, the Batang Lupar Bridge No. 2 and Sungai Lingga Bridge.
Both are key components under the state’s Second Trunk Road (STR) initiative aimed at boosting connectivity across central Sarawak.
The RM223.63-million Batang Lupar Bridge No. 2, that stretches 870 metres across the Batang Lupar River, features a navigational clearance of 200 metres in width and 23 metres in height, supported by 145.5-metre pylons, a structural highlight expected to become a new landmark upon completion.
Complementing the bridge is a 2.36-kilometre approach road, complete with roadside drainage, guard rails, and other road furniture.
The project is scheduled for completion on March 31 next year.
Meanwhile, the Sungai Lingga Bridge, which is being built at a project cost of RM92.36 million, involves a 724.86-metre balanced cantilever bridge with a navigational channel 100 metres wide and 15 metres high.
The project which also includes 325.14 metres of approach road and equipped with modern drainage and safety features is targeted for completion on October 30 this year.
Both bridge projects are integral to the Second Trunk Road network, which links Sebuyau to Sri Aman and Betong, providing a shorter, safer, and more direct route between major towns.
The Batang Lupar Bridge No. 2, in particular, will reduce the travel distance between Sri Aman and Betong from 73 kilometres via the Pan Borneo Highway to only 37 kilometres along the STR route.
Upon completion, these infrastructure upgrades are expected to stimulate economic activity by opening up new areas for agriculture, tourism and commerce, while improving mobility for thousands of residents.
During his visit, Uggah emphasised the importance of adhering to project timelines, maintaining high engineering standards, and ensuring transparency throughout the implementation process.
He also stressed that these projects must deliver direct benefits to local communities once completed, transforming mobility and supporting socio-economic growth across the Sri Aman Division.
