Rural roads in Bau upgraded to resolve flood woes

BAU: Several rural roads in the Bau area are being upgraded to address flooding issues at flood-prone areas while being widened to meet the Public Works Department (PWD) R1 standard.

In revealing this, Deputy Minister for Transport (Riverine and Marine) Datuk Henry Harry Jinep said the areas involved are Jalan Tanjong Poting, Kampung Senibong, and Kampung Tanjong Bowang.

“Upon the completion of the project, we expect to address long standing flooding concerns in the flood-prone area,” Jinep said.

The Tasik Biru assemblyman said the project costs RM43.9 million and will take 24 months to complete.

The scope of work involves road expansion works, construction of two bridges to replace the existing iron bridge, building drainage channels, retaining walls, and road furniture.

Currently, ongoing works include site clearing, survey work, and preliminary tasks.

He said this during a press conference after officiating at the ground-breaking ceremony at Tanjong Poting Hall, Singai, Bau today (Jan 27).

Jinep said the project will tackle the flooding issue in Kampung Senibong caused by the presence of the Pan Borneo Road above the village.

Meanwhile, the deputy minister said there are challenges pertaining to land matters
particularly lands with existing titles that were passed down by parents to their children.

“The construction of roads may potentially lead to the loss of these lands for the next generation. We are actively seeking solutions to these challenges, particularly concerning the smaller roads that play a crucial role in facilitating two-way traffic.

“I have discussed this with PWD to resolve these issues and ensure a seamless progression of the project,” he added.

Also present during the ceremony were Kuching Resident Norleha Shariff, a political secretary to the Premier, Charles Chad Nissom; Bau district officer Constantine Gerald David Jonas and Bau district council secretary Ong Chin Ping.