Nanta wants Medan Jaya flyover completed before Gawai

BINTULU: Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi has called for the long-delayed Medan Jaya flyover project here to be completed ahead of its revised schedule, preferably before Gawai next year.

The RM135 million project, initially scheduled for completion in 2024, has received three extensions of time (EOT) due to several issues, including utility relocation.

Nanta said a major issue involving access to the Bintulu district police headquarters (IPD) had since been resolved, with the contractor now confident of completing the project by July 2027.

“After hearing the briefing from the Sarawak Public Works Department (JKR) and the response from the contractor, I can accept what they have proposed for completing the project.

“But if possible, we want it earlier. It would be good if it could be completed before Gawai,” he said during a site visit here today (Sept 21).

Nanta (4th left) and others pose for a photo during the visit. Photo: Sarawak PWD

According to the Works Ministry, the project has reached 89.05 per cent physical completion, with the current contractual completion date set for Sept 15, 2027.

Nanta said the previous delays were understandable given the problems encountered at the construction site, particularly utility relocation works.

However, he said the contractor could face liquidated and ascertained damages (LAD) if it failed to meet the stipulated completion deadline without being granted a further EOT.

The project involves a 2.6km stretch comprising road upgrades to eight and six lanes in different sections, a four-lane two-way flyover, upgrading of existing roads and improvements at the Medan Jaya and Taman Tinggi intersections.

Once completed, the project will help ease congestion at the Medan Jaya intersection, particularly during peak hours, while improving road safety and travel efficiency.

The Medan Jaya flyover project. Photo: Sarawak PWD