KUCHING, Oct 23: The Public Works Department (JKR) has been urged to upgrade the drainage system on both sides of the federal road from Jalan Batu Kawah until Datuk Chong Kiun Kong bridge as many sections along this road stretch are inundated by water during rain or heavy downpours.
In making this call, Batu Kawah assemblyman Datuk Seri Dr Sim Kui Hian revealed that the Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP) Batu Kawah Service Centre has received many reports this year from the public about the flooded road.
“The area’s water (drainage) outlet is seriously blocked, causing some parts of the road to be inundated by water especially now due to the monsoon rains,” he disclosed in a press release after a visit to the area yesterday (Oct 22).
“My secretary has written to JKR to request the authority to rectify the issue but I’m disappointed that they did not improve and upgrade the drainage system even though the stretch of road is under the federal government’s jurisdiction,” he added.
Dr Sim, who is also Minister of Local Government and Housing, revealed that his service centre has written in once again with photos of the affected areas attached to urge JKR to take prompt action as it is their responsibility to ensure the safety of road users.
“It is unfair that the federal government is collecting various taxes, including road tax, from Sarawak yearly and yet they cannot provide Sarawakians with better federal road infrastructure.
“I hope JKR will not give anymore excuses but get the issue solved for the benefit of the people,” he urged. — DayakDaily
