RM50 mln Bario–Pa Lungan road upgrade relaunched after contractor setback

MIRI (March 28): A project to complete the remaining improvement works on the existing road from Bario to Pa Lungan costing RM50 million was launched on Saturday, marking a significant step towards easing long-standing infrastructure woes faced by residents in the interior particularly during the rainy season.

The groundbreaking ceremony was officiated by Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring) Datuk Gerawat Gala.

Gerawat said the project involves the construction of a 12-kilometre road alignment built to R1 standard, with a width of five metres, aimed at improving road safety, travelling comfort and accessibility for local communities.

“Of the total length, nine kilometres will be surfaced with gravel, while the remaining three kilometres will be constructed with concrete, taking into consideration the terrain and suitability of the area,” he said.

The Mulu assemblyman added that the project also includes the construction of a 200-metre steel bridge, which will serve as an important link to facilitate the movement of residents and the transportation of goods between Bario and Pa Lungan.

According to him, the project was initially launched several years ago but could not be completed due to the failure of the original contractor.

“As such, the contract was terminated. The Regional Corridor Development Authority (Recoda) subsequently re-tendered the project, which has now been awarded to a more experienced and capable contractor to ensure that the works are carried out in an orderly manner, with quality and in accordance with the stipulated schedule,” he said.

He hope that upon completion, the project would bring meaningful improvements to the lives of the people in Bario and Pa Lungan, while acting as a catalyst for more rapid development in the interior.