SIBU: Continuous rainfall has affected the progress of the Ulu Sungai Merah road upgrading project here, particularly the stretch from Lorong 18 to Lorong 12.
Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government, Datuk Michael Tiang Ming Tee, said that he met with the contractor in charge of the project, Walter Toh, on Friday to obtain the latest updates on the situation on the ground.
He said that the affected section is currently on standby as rainy conditions are not suitable for asphalt paving works.
“It’s not a pause but, rather, upgrading works will be carried out according to weather conditions,” said Tiang, who is also Pelawan assembyman.
Once weather conditions improve, he pointed out that the contractor will immediately resume works, complete the stone base and proceed with asphalt paving to improve road conditions and traffic flow.
With schools set to reopen next week and traffic volume expected to increase, he urged the contractor to expedite the asphalt works and called on road users to exercise patience and understanding, emphasising that the project is still ongoing.
“My service team will continue to closely monitor the progress of the project and provide updates to the public when necessary,” he added.
