Baram residents urge swift upgrade of former logging roads after fatal crash

MIRI (March 1): Residents in Baram have called on the Sarawak government to expedite maintenance and upgrading works on former logging roads across the constituency, citing serious safety concerns for interior communities that rely solely on these routes.

Saban Community Association Miri president Usat Bilong said a recent fatal accident occurred along the Ulu Baram stretch near Long San, involving a four-wheel-drive vehicle that plunged into a ravine while travelling from Long Banga to Miri.

“The accident claimed the life of the husband, while his wife sustained serious injuries.

“This is not an isolated incident, and we fear more lives could be lost if road conditions are not improved immediately,” he told The Borneo Post here on Saturday.

Usat said road users frequently face hazards due to poor road conditions, including uneven surfaces, landslides and damaged culverts, which often disrupt travel.

Despite the risks, residents have no alternative, as the road remains the only main access between the upper Baram area and Miri, serving as a vital route for villagers returning home, seeking medical treatment, and transporting daily necessities.

“We therefore humbly appeal to the government to take immediate action to upgrade the logging road into a safe, tarred road suitable for long-term use,” he said.

Usat also welcomed the Sarawak government’s decision to take over the maintenance of former logging roads.