MARUDI, Aug 9: The Public Works Department (JKR) Sarawak has appointed a rescue contractor to resolve the construction delays of Marudi Bridge which was supposed to be completed on Jan 24 this year but only saw 15 per cent physical work completion since it started three years ago.
Deputy Minister of Infrastructure Development Ir Aidel Lariwoo said that the original contractor has been terminated after it failed to complete the Marudi Bridge project according to schedule.
“As when the (original) contractor’s service was terminated, the project was only 15 per cent completed.
“The rescue contractor has just started initial works which was estimated to have progressed one to two per cent,” he said in a news report by Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) when visiting the bridge construction site here today.
The Marudi Bridge project was implemented on Jan 25, 2019 and was slated for completion on Jan 24, 2022.
Aidel, who was briefed on the problems and weaknesses faced by the original contractor, has brought together representatives of relevant departments and agencies including JKR and Ministry of Infrastructure and Port Development (MIPD) to find a solution for the project.
“It was delayed due to several problems such as weaknesses of the contractor and other issues that have been identified.
“We are working to overcome the problems and find the best solutions to complete the project with the appointment of a rescue contractor,” he added.
Meanwhile, Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government and Marudi assemblyman Datu Dr Penguang Manggil hopes with the appointment of the new contractor, the Marudi Bridge can be completed as soon as possible.
“I have high hopes for the contractor who has been appointed to complete the project in a timely manner,” he added.
Marudi District Officer Belayong Pok, community leaders and JKR Miri Division officers were among those present. — DayakDaily
