KUCHING: The Sungai Lingga Bridge is expected to be completed next month, while the Batang Lupar Bridge in Sebuyau is on track for completion by the end of the year as part of the Sarawak government痴 efforts to complete the Coastal Road Network and Second Trunk Road (STR) projects.
Deputy Minister for Infrastructure and Port Development, Datuk Aidel Lariwoo said these developments form part of ongoing efforts to strengthen connectivity across the state under two major infrastructure initiatives: the Coastal Road Programme and the STR.
“The Second Trunk Road (STR) starts from Batang Sejingkat and runs through Samarahan, Sebuyau, Betong, and several areas in Sarikei.
“The Coastal Road Programme not only involves the construction of major bridges such as Batang Rambungan, Saribas Bridge, Batang Lupar, Batang Paloh, and Batang Lassa, but also includes upgrading existing road surfaces.
“In addition to these bridges, there are also upgrades and pavement rehabilitation works being carried out along the Coastal Road,” he said during a working visit to the project site here on Wednesday (June 11).
He added that progress is very positive, and once all the major bridges are completed the Coastal Road Programme can be considered fully delivered.
“In the future, it will connect to the planned deep seaport and airport in Tanjong Embang.”
Commenting on delays in several projects, Aidel acknowledged that there have been setbacks.
However, he said the Sarawak government’s strict monitoring efforts are starting to show positive results.
“Before Covid, we had more than 100 ‘sick’ projects. Now, we’ve reduced that to fewer than five through tight supervision and strict scheduling for contractors.
“And conducting monthly monitoring together with technical agencies such as the Public Works Department, the Land and Survey Department, and others.”
