ENGKILILI: The RM20.51 million Ulu Skrang, Lubok Antu Road Project (Phase 2) is expected to restore a 50km land route and improve access for about 2,500 residents in the interior area.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said the project was crucial in restoring land connectivity after several wooden bridges and culverts along the Ulu Skrang route collapsed.
“We want to see the situation on the ground ourselves and ensure that the project is implemented properly because this road is important to the community. With better land connectivity, residents will have safer and easier access,” he said.
He said this in his Facebook post after inspecting the project site during the Public Works Department (PWD) Sarawak XPDC 3.0 on Wednesday (Aug 12).
Uggah, who is also Minister for Infrastructure and Port Development, said the project involved the construction of two 67m composite bridges across Sungai Mengong and Sungai Penabun, with 250m approach roads for each bridge.
“The Ulu Skrang community comprises several longhouses, three primary schools and a community clinic. Once this land connection is restored, residents will no longer have to rely entirely on river routes to travel,” he said.
He added that the project would make it easier for residents to access education, healthcare and other essential services.
Uggah also called for closer coordination between the contractor and PWD to address delays and accelerate work at the site.
“We understand that conditions in this area are challenging, particularly in terms of logistics and the transportation of construction materials. However, we want the contractor and PWD to work together to find ways to expedite the work so that the project can be completed properly,” he said.
The project, implemented by Autopower Consultant (M) Sdn Bhd, has a contract value of RM20,506,857.58 and an original completion date of Nov 11, 2027.
Its scope includes earthworks, subgrade preparation, R1-standard premix approach roads, drainage systems and road safety facilities.
Drainage works comprise side drains, bench drains, interceptor drains, toe drains and berm drains, while safety features include guardrails, pavement edge lines, warning signs and directional signs.
