KOTA SAMARAHAN: The construction of the new Batang Samarahan Bridge and a 9-kilometre new four-lane dual carriageway from Batang Samarahan to Batang Sadong is progressing ahead of schedule.
Deputy Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development (Infrastructure Development), Datuk Aidel Lariwoo, said that the project under Package A1-A has recorded a progress of 11.61 per cent, slightly ahead of the scheduled 11.43 per cent.
“This 0.18 per cent lead is a positive indicator of the project’s momentum.
“I’m happy to note that the progress is quite steady, especially for the bridge and road segment under Package A1-A,” he said, attributing the advancement to the steady supply and work commitment from the contractor.
He said this during a press conference after the A1-A Package Project, Construction and Completion of the New Batang Samarahan Bridge and the 9-kilometre Dual Carriageway to Batang Sadong (CH8+150) in the Samarahan Division at A1-A site office here on Wednesday.
Aidel expressed hope that the pace of work would continue, potentially leading to an earlier-than-expected completion date.
He added that the project is part of the Second Trunk Road Programme implemented by the Public Works Department (PWD) that starts from Batang Sejingkat to Batang Samarahan, then to Batang Sadong, continuing to Sebuyau, Betong, and beyond.
“This Second Trunk Road is also built as a complement to the completed Pan Borneo Highway and the Coastal Road, which is currently being upgraded with the construction of several bridges.
“Once completed, this second trunk road and the new linkages will significantly transform connectivity in the area, complementing the Pan Borneo Highway and benefiting local communities,” he said.
The project, which began in August 2023, is being carried out according to JKR’s R5 standard and is estimated to cost around RM529,828,000.
It is slated for completion by February 2027.
