SIBURAN: A new 3.4-kilometre alternative road connecting four villages in the Tarat constituency will be built at a cost of RM8 million to improve accessibility.
Education, Innovation and Talent Development Minister, Datuk Seri Roland Sagah Wee Inn, said the project, implemented under the Greater Kuching Coordinated Development Agency (GKCDA), was expected to be completed within a year.
“The road will benefit Kampung Sungai Riset, Kampung Skuduk, Kampung Plaman Payang and Kampung Chupak.
“Previously, the villages were served by a ‘jalan ban’ (an embankment road) built by the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID), but this project involves the construction of a new road to provide better accessibility,” he told reporters after officiating at the ground-breaking ceremony for the project at Kampung Skuduk here today.
Sagah, who is also the Tarat assemblyman, said the improved access would also support local economic activities, particularly tourism, by providing easier access to the Panchor Hot Spring.
“Once the road is completed, people can visit the hot spring more conveniently,” he said.
Earlier in his speech, Sagah said the RM8-million allocation took into account rising construction costs, inflation, land acquisition and compensation expenses.
He thanked affected landowners for allowing construction to proceed despite compensation yet to be paid.
“However, I want to assure everyone that no privately owned land will be taken by the government without compensation,” he said.
Sagah also called on the Public Works Department (JKR), DID and the Siburan District Council to determine which agency would be responsible for maintaining the road after its completion.
He said annual allocations should be provided for routine maintenance, including grass cutting, to ensure the road remained in good condition for villagers.
