SERIAN: The Serian–Gedong–Samarahan dual carriageway project has shown commendable progress with Package 1A, covering a 9.72-kilometre alignment from Simpang Rayang to Simpang Tanah Puteh, currently ahead of its implementation schedule.

Sarawak Deputy Minister for Infrastructure and Port Development Datuk Ir. Aidel Lariwoo said the project not only increases road capacity but is also envisioned as a modern mobility corridor to meet future demand.

“The project entails the development of a dual carriageway equipped with a bicycle track, along with provisions for future infrastructure such as an Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) route and utility corridors on both sides,” he stated during a working visit to the project site on Tuesday.

He explained that the project upgrades the road from a two-lane R3 to a four-lane R5 standard while also adding a 40-metre reinforced concrete bridge and energy-efficient street lighting.

He said that the project is part of an approximately 18km dual carriageway linking Serian and Gedong which will reduce travel time to about 18 minutes at a speed of 120km/h.

He explained that upon the resolution of all land acquisition matters, the contractor would be able to gain full access to the site, thereby accelerating project implementation.

In terms of progress, the project has recorded an actual physical completion of 7.77 per cent compared to the scheduled 3.46 per cent, placing it 4.31 per cent ahead of schedule.

As for financial progres, it has reached 11.45 per cent against 7.85 per cent.

Land acquisition matters which had previously posed a significant challenge are now approaching completion with compensation already disbursed to 63 landowners while the remaining cases are anticipated to be resolved in the near term.

In the long term, the project is anticipated to act as a catalyst for rural development while supporting the government’s aspiration to establish Gedong as an agricultural hub, thereby benefiting over 14,000 residents in surrounding areas including Kampung Rayang, Munggu Kopi, Tanah Puteh, and Sebemban.

Aside from improving connectivity, the project is set to energise local economic activities, generate business opportunities and reduce transportation costs for the community.

Overall, the project, valued at approximately RM1.9 billion consists of five construction packages and forms part of the second main state road network connecting Samarahan to Tanjung Embang.

Once completed, the route is expected to serve as an important alternative for road users, providing smoother travel and contributing to the comprehensive development of Sarawak. -UKASnews

Translator: Suhaila AW