KUCHING: A long-awaited drainage upgrading project for the Taman Sri Emas residential area along Stapok Utama Road in Batu Kawa here is now underway following approval under the Malaysian Road Records Information System (MARRIS) programme.
The project, valued at RM266,530, was approved after an application submitted by Batu Kawa assemblyman, Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, following concerns raised by residents regarding the deteriorating condition of the area’s drainage system.
The Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP), in a statement issued recently, said the drainage network in Taman Sri Emas had not undergone major upgrading works for many years, resulting in severe deterioration that affected water flow and drainage efficiency.
According to the statement, residents had conveyed their concerns through the N14 Batu Kawa Service Centre and requested immediate repairs and upgrading works to address the ageing infrastructure and recurring drainage-related issues within the neighbourhood.
Following site inspections, planning assessments and cost estimation exercises conducted by the Padawan Municipal Council (MPP), Dr Sim moved swiftly to assist in submitting an application for the implementation of the project.
SUPP said the project subsequently received approval under the MARRIS allocation, with construction works commencing on June 5.
The upgrading exercise is scheduled to be completed by Sept 11, subject to weather conditions and site requirements.
“The Padawan Municipal Council is responsible for implementing the project, including preparing the design, estimating costs, managing the tender process and supervising construction works throughout the duration of the project.
“Current works focus on upgrading the main drainage channels within the residential area. As many sections of the existing drains are severely damaged, complete reconstruction is required, necessitating excavation along the entire drainage alignment,” it said.
It noted that construction activities may cause temporary inconvenience to residents, particularly regarding vehicle access and daily movement within certain sections of the housing area during the project period.
SUPP expressed appreciation for the patience and cooperation shown by residents and hoped the contractor would complete the project according to schedule, enabling the community to benefit from a safer, more efficient and improved drainage system as soon as possible.
