Minister: KUTS Phase 1 progress at 33.51 pct, still on schedule despite minor delay

KUCHING (Dec 2): The overall progress of the Kuching Urban Transportation System (KUTS) Phase 1 Project stands at 33.51 per cent, said Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin.

Delivering his ministerial winding-up speech at the State Legislative Assembly sitting here on Tuesday, Lee noted that although progress is slightly behind the planned 34.78 per cent, and despite minor variations across work packages, the project remains on schedule.

He said Sarawak Metro Sdn Bhd has implemented a Traffic Control Plan (TCP) across all construction zones involving KUTS works, following public concerns over traffic congestion, access changes, road safety issues and occasional disruptions to utilities.

These measures, he added, are supported by strict work procedures, protective safeguards for underground utilities, and close supervision to prevent damage and minimise inconvenience to road users and nearby communities.

“The KUTS Emergency Response Team (ERT) remains on standby around the clock to respond promptly to traffic-related incidents along the ART corridor, working closely with the police, ambulance services and the Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) to maintain public safety.

“Regular updates are also issued through multiple channels, including official social media, to keep the public informed of ongoing works, expected impacts and safety precautions.

“Despite these efforts, the project continues to face challenges, including narrow road reserves in built-up areas, high traffic volumes during peak hours, limited alternative routes and, in particular, uncharted underground utilities that cannot be accurately located,” he said.

He urged the public travelling along the KUTS project corridor to remain attentive to temporary traffic signs and diversions, observe posted speed limits, and plan their journeys in advance wherever possible.