By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, July 31: The Sungai Paku Bridge on Jalan Tanjung Sebekut, Spaoh, is now open to the public—marking another important milestone in the Sarawak government’s efforts to strengthen the transportation network in Betong Division.
In a statement from the Sarawak Public Works Department (JKR), the bridge, which was officiated by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas today, provides smoother, safer, and more comfortable travel for residents, particularly those commuting between Spaoh and Betong via Jalan Tanjung Sebekut.
The bridge is a single-span steel arch bridge measuring 100 metres in length, built across Sungai Paku. The project was implemented under the Sarawak Ministry of Infrastructure and Port Development, with the Sarawak JKR serving as the implementing agency.
“Jalan Tanjung Sebekut is an important alternative route linking Betong and Spaoh. Using this route can reduce travel time by about 30 minutes compared with travelling via the main road between Betong and Spaoh.
“The route also benefits more than 20 longhouses and local communities, while providing connectivity to Debak and coastal settlements as far as Pusa,” said the department.
Before the construction of the new bridge, road users had to use the existing single-lane steel bridge. This required motorists to stop and give way to vehicles travelling in the opposite direction, affecting traffic flow, especially during peak hours.
The new bridge resolves the ‘stop-and-give-way’ system previously experienced by daily users. It also allows heavy vehicles and goods transport vehicles to pass through the area without having to use a longer alternative route.
In addition to constructing the main bridge, the project scope included widening part of the existing road to JKR R3 standards, constructing two mini roundabouts, building approximately 150 metres of riverbank protection wall, relocating an underwater pipeline, relocating electricity poles and underground cables, and carrying out electrical works on both the new bridge and the existing steel bridge.
Meanwhile, the old bridge will be upgraded and repurposed as a pedestrian walkway. This measure not only preserves the existing structure but also has the potential to make it a landmark and a new attraction in Spaoh town.
The riverfront development under this project also provides a recreational space for activities such as jogging, fishing, leisure outings and spending time with family against the backdrop of the Sungai Paku Bridge.
“The opening of the Sungai Paku Bridge reflects the Sarawak government’s continued commitment to providing better transport infrastructure, enhancing residents’ mobility and supporting the socio-economic development of local communities,” said the department. — DayakDaily
