RM1.188 mln Kpg Endap housing scheme faces hard rock challenge, blasting plan in place

TheSPK Endap site in Kota Samarahan, where a large deposit of hard rock has led authorities to plan controlled blasting. Photo credit: Ukas

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Feb 25: The discovery of 18,700 cubic metres of hard rock at the Kampung Endap Expansion Scheme (SPK Endap) site has led authorities to propose controlled rock blasting for the RM1.188 million project.

According to the Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas), the Sarawak Land and Survey Department (JTS) through the Samarahan District Land and Survey Office recently held a dialogue to brief villagers on the project and seek their feedback on the proposed blasting method, with the project fully funded by the Sarawak Government and implemented by JTS.

Land and Survey Officer for Samarahan Ahmad Raslan Yaiyah said the SPK Endap project aims to provide safer and more comfortable housing for residents, particularly those previously affected by flooding.

JTS officials attend a briefing with Kampung Endap villagers on the proposed controlled rock blasting for the RM1.188 million housing expansion project, with residents’ safety and feedback prioritised. Photo credit: Ukas

“The project involves 48 residential lots, but the presence of extensive hard rock on-site makes mechanical excavation impractical. Any expansion beyond the 48 lots to 52 lots will only proceed with villagers’ consent.

“Controlled blasting is recommended as the safest and most efficient approach with explosives calculated precisely and timed detonators to minimise risks,” he said.

Ahmad added that this method will speed up excavation, prevent project delays and reduce noise impact on nearby residents and schools.

Special Officer to the Kota Samarahan MP Latifah Beni highlighted the need for transparent risk assessment and guarantees from the implementing agency in case of any damage.

“We are not imposing anything. This dialogue is meant to hear all views so that decisions benefit both residents and the government,” she said.

The contractor assumed the site on Jan 26 with a six-month contract scheduled for completion on Jul 25. — DayakDaily