By Dayangku Hidayatul
KUCHING, May 14: Baleh assemblyman Nicholas Kudi has called on the Sarawak government to take immediate action to repair the deteriorating access road to the Baleh Hydroelectric Power Project (HEP), warning that its worsening condition is compromising public safety, disrupting services, and slowing economic activity in the interior.
Debating the motion of thanks on the Yang di-Pertua Negeri (TYT) Sarawak’s address at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting today, he said the route has reached an alarming state, with extensive potholes, damaged stretches, and multiple slope failures that make it increasingly hazardous, particularly at night.
“This situation not only endangers road users, but may also affect the smooth movement of people and hinder development in the area,” he said.
He urged for urgent remedial works, including road resurfacing, drainage clearing, and slope stabilisation to prevent further erosion and reduce the risk of accidents.
Nicholas stressed that the poor condition of the road is disrupting daily movement, delaying the transport of goods and supplies to the construction site, and affecting access to healthcare and education services for local communities.
He added that the deteriorating infrastructure is also weighing on local economic activity, impacting residents who rely heavily on the route for essential travel and services.
“If Sarawak is serious about strengthening rural development and enhancing domestic connectivity as highlighted in the TYT’s address, then infrastructure in interior areas such as Baleh must be given priority under the state’s development agenda,” he said. — DayakDaily
