SARATOK: The long wait for residents around the Pusa, Kabong and Saratok districts to enjoy smoother connectivity is nearing its end following the successful completion of the final segment connection of the Batang Krian Bridge structure.
Batang Maro headman Allen Aran said the construction of the bridge is a development for which residents are deeply grateful, as it will greatly ease daily travel for the local community.
“I am thankful that the construction of this bridge will make travelling easier.
“I would also like to thank the Sarawak government because after this, there will no longer be issues of waiting for the ferry, and no one will have to turn back due to ferry services not operating,” he told the media yesterday.
According to him, residents are now getting closer to being able to use the bridge and expect an increase in visitors approaching the coming Syawal festive season, as travel will become much smoother.
Meanwhile, Beladin penghulu Zakaria Mos said the symbolic connection of the final bridge segment signifies that the project has entered its final phase before being opened to the public in March.
“On behalf of residents in the surrounding areas who frequently use this route, I would like to express my gratitude to the Sarawak government.
“Once completed, it will ease connectivity with an estimated travel time savings of about half an hour.”
Zakaria noted that besides facilitating daily activities, the bridge is also expected to stimulate local economic activities.
He also expressed happiness that the bridge is expected to be usable by Aidilfitri, hoping that visiting relatives will be more convenient without the need to wait for ferry services.
In the meantime, Ulu Krian and Batang Budu penghulu Anyum Kinyeh also expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the development brought by the Sarawak government.
“I never imagined I would witness such remarkable development.
“If previously we had to wait for the ferry, after this it will take less than a minute to cross the river with the presence of this magnificent bridge.”
He added that the government’s effort to build the bridge not only shortens travel time but also has a significant impact on improving the economic well-being of rural residents.
“The Sarawak government is very concerned about its people. My hope is that development programmes like this will continue in the future.”
The construction of the Batang Krian Bridge is seen as a key catalyst for the social and economic progress of the local community, while also ending reliance on ferry services that previously served as the only main crossing route.
