KAPIT: Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has described the growing traffic congestion here as a “success story”, attributing it to the town’s rapid development and improved connectivity.
He said the transformation of Kapit from a town dependent on river transport to one connected by road infrastructure had brought significant economic and social changes, resulting in increased movement of people and vehicles.
“When there is success, there will also be challenges,” he told reporters at a press conference after attending the Sarawakku Sayang (SKS) programme here on Saturday.
Abang Johari noted that Kapit was once heavily reliant on express boats and jetties as its main transportation links, but the development of road infrastructure had opened up new opportunities for trade, agriculture and connectivity.
“Previously, we depended on jetties. Now we have roads. When development takes place and facilities are provided, people come to trade, farm and visit their relatives,” he said.
He added that improved accessibility had accelerated Kapit’s development and created opportunities for further urban expansion.
Acknowledging the growing traffic congestion in the town, Abang Johari said the state government would continue to review and improve infrastructure to accommodate future growth.
Meanwhile, Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said the Premier had approved two road upgrading packages worth RM58 million and RM92 million respectively to help address traffic congestion in Kapit.
“Regarding the traffic congestion issue, the Premier has approved two packages to upgrade roads to address congestion, amounting to RM58 million and RM92 million,” he said.
Nanta added that several other infrastructure projects and facilities had also been approved through the Upper Rajang Development Agency (URDA).
