THE estimated RM151.3 million proposed upgrading road from Melabu Bair, Betong to Rh Suing and Jalan Entabai Sarikei project will further enhance safety and regional access.
Deputy Minister for Infrastructure and Port Development Datuk Aidel Lariwoo said that, for long-term planning, the upgrading works of the former logging road to Rumah Panau, Teberu Ulu Kemalih have been included in the scope of the project.
“The project will be submitted for consideration under Rolling Plan 2 of the 13th Malaysia Plan.
“This road project will complete the road network connecting Jalan Ulu Entaih or Rh Sang (Pakan District) to Melabu Bair and Ulu Layar (Betong Division).
“Hence, reducing transportation costs and shorten the travel time from approximately three and a half hours to two hours, thereby facilitating movement between Pakan District and Betong Division,” he said.
He was replying to Meluan assemblyman Datuk Rolland Duat Jubin during question-and-answer time in the DUN sitting today.
Aidel, who is Sadong Jaya assemblyman, said the scope of work for this project included land acquisition, utility relocation, and construction of approximately 11.7 km of road to JKR R3 standard, comprising 2.4 km in Betong Division and 9.3 km in Sarikei Division.
“It also involves the of two reinforced concrete (RC) bridges each measuring 50 metres, and one bridge measuring 100 metres, drainage structures such as culverts, and installation of road furniture,” he said.
Earlier, he said the Sarawak Public Works Department (JKR) will register the former logging road to Rumah Panau, Teberu Ulu Kemalih under the Malaysian Road Records Information System (MARRIS).
“This will enable maintenance through a term contract under the State Road Maintenance programme to ensure safety and comfort for road users,” he said.
