By Peter Sibon
KUCHING, Nov 6: The construction of two major bridges which are supposed to be 100 per cent federal government funded are Rambungan and Batang Igan Bridges while the Batang Lupar Bridge which was supposed to be implemented on a 50-50 per cent basis, have been postponed by the new federal government, revealed Assistant Minister of Coastal Road Datuk Julaihi Narawi.
However, the implementation of these three bridges have been included in the State Budget as announced by Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg on Monday.
Other important bridges which will be built by the state government in order to connect Sematan right up to Miri are Batang Saribas, Krian, Kuala Lassa, Batang Paloh and the Kuala Kemana-Jepak Bridge.
“These bridges are the main missing links between Sematan and Miri. This (missing links) will also include the Batang Rajang Bridge crossing near Sarikei to connect it with Tanjung Manis,” said Julaihi on the sidelines of the State Legislative Assembly sitting here today.
On the Second Trunk Road, Julaihi said the Pre-Q (pre-qualification) has been made and the latest outcome wofld be announced soon.
Julaihi said his ministry would continue to appeal to the new federal government which had postponed the implementation of these three bridges, which have been promised by the previous administration.
“These bridges are suppose to provide connectivity for the rural people especially those who are living in the coastal areas,” he stressed.
Both the coastal road plus the seven bridges and the Second Trunk Road are expected to cost a staggering RM11 billion, and are expected to be implemented over the next 10 years.
Yesterday, Minister of Infrastructure Development and Transportation Tan Sri Dr James Jemut Masing said he hoped that by 2025, these bridges will be completed to provide a seamless drive from Sematan right up to Miri, covering a distance of about 1,500km. — DayakDaily
