By Karen Bong
KUCHING, June 28: Batu Kitang assemblyman Dato Lo Khere Chiang expressed his gratitude to Works Minister Dato Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi for approving the proposed construction of a flyover at Mile 8, estimated to cost RM400 million, to resolve the daily traffic congestion faced by the people.
Lo emphasised that the recent approval announcement by Nanta has brought joy and relief to many who use this road to send their children to school and commute to work daily.
“This is a federal project, and getting it approved is already a big hurdle. But I am sure it is in the good hands of Dato Sri (Nanta), who will ensure its proper implementation,” he said during a press conference at the Batu Kitang service centre in Mile 6 today.
Lo highlighted that he first brought up the need for this flyover in April last year during the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS) Sitting. He raised the matter several more times over the past year, while urging Stampin MP Chong Chieng Jen to advocate for the project in Parliament.
However, he expressed disappointment with Chong, who is also the Democratic Action Party (DAP) Sarawak chairman, for never raising the issue. Instead, Chong believed the flyover was unnecessary and suggested adjusting traffic light timings to smooth traffic flow along the route.
Lo thus questioned the sincerity of the DAP, which is a partner in the unity government, in looking after Sarawak’s interests.
“In May last year, I met with Dato Sri (Nanta) in Sibu to request his assistance and briefed him about the urgent need for the flyover, which he promised to put the request an urgent priority,” he said.
On Monday (June 24), Nanta stated that an interchange will be built at Mile 8 Jalan Kuching-Serian to faciliate vehicle movement and address traffic congestion, especially during the peak hours.
He said the project is expected to cost RM400 million and take three years to complete, scheduled to commence next year if preliminary works can be done by the end of this year.
To ensure greater mobility in the area, Lo also noted that autonomous rapid transit (ART) stops are being planned, including in Kuching International Airport and Mile 10, to enhance public transportation in this part of the city. — DayakDaily
