BETONG, March 1: The construction of the nation’s longest bridge across a river, the RM848.7 million Batang Lupar 1 bridge spanning 4.8km, remains on track despite being slightly behind schedule due to challenges posed by inclement weather, rough sea conditions and the heavy presence of crocodiles.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas who visited the site here today said he was satisfied with the overall work progress which has now reached 16.59 per cent versus the scheduled 20.71 per cent.
“I am rather happy as at least I am not visiting a sick project, considering its length, cost and other specifications and all the challenges.
“I believe the contractor Perbena Emas Sdn Bhd is capable of completing it earlier than its scheduled completion date by 7 July, 2025,” he said in a statement today.
However, Uggah who is also Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development (MIPD), noted that recent inclement weather and rough sea conditions are the main challenges affecting the bridge’s construction.
With the contractor company partnering one of China’s biggest and most reputable construction firms, China Railway Major Bridge Engineering Group Company Ltd, Uggah believed construction could be expedited when they get more workers from China.
Earlier, Uggah was briefed on the work progress by Public Works Department (JKR) Sarawak deputy director Ir Ts Cassidy Morris and Perbena Emas executive director Helen Teng.
On a lighter note, Teng revealed another challenge was the presence of many crocodiles in the river.
“Of course our workers are spooked by their presence although there has been no untoward incident affecting them.
“We have told them to be very careful and to not fall into the river,” she said.
MIPD permanent secretary Chiew Chew Yaw was also present. — DayakDaily
