MIRI: The slope repair and reconstruction of a collapsed reinforced concrete drain along Jalan Riam Hill is expected to be fully completed by July 21.
Transport Minister Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin said the project which has reached 45 per cent completion is funded under the Sarawak Government Emergency Fund and coordinated by the Public Works Department (PWD) as an immediate intervention to ensure public safety and prevent more serious erosion risks in the future.
He said although the drainage system falls under the jurisdiction of the Miri City Council (MCC), the state government approved a special allocation to resolve the long-standing issue.
“The project was tendered at a contract value of RM449,800 and construction work began on April 22,” he said during a site visit to the project on Monday.
Lee said the project aims to stabilise the slope that had experienced structural failure, reconstruct the collapsed drainage system, restore water flow capacity, prevent ongoing erosion, and enhance the safety of road users and nearby residents.
During the visit, Lee also received feedback from local residents who raised concerns over hollow soil conditions near the construction area, which could potentially affect a concrete fence and access to their homes.
He instructed the contractor and MCC to ensure all works are carried out in accordance with specifications and to take appropriate measures to prevent any risk of erosion or future damage.
“The state government is also implementing another Emergency Fund project worth RM400,000 in the Hilltop area to address erosion issues which affected three houses following heavy rain and flooding incidents previously,” he added.
