Traders fume over lack of access in Jln Ulu Sungai Merah road project

SIBU (Feb 5): Traders at Jalan Ulu Sungai Merah are fuming over the dual-carriageway road construction which does not include a barrier opening, thus preventing vehicle access to and from both directions, said former Bukit Assek assemblywoman Irene Chang.

She said this is expected to lead to a sharp decline in customer traffic and severely undermine the viability of businesses operating in the area.

“I urgently call upon the responsible agencies to take immediate action to engage directly with the stakeholders.

“Even if the authorities have their own reasons to implement the road project in the current manner, they need to listen and interact with the residents and business communities of the area to address their concerns, allay their fears and provide a suitable solution to their concerns.

“The residents and business community of Ulu Sungai Merah deserve transparency, accountability and respect,” she said in a statement.

Chang said turning Jalan Ulu Sungai Merah into a dual-carriageway was necessary to address traffic woes in the area, and it was much welcomed by all the road users there.

“Originally, there were two such entry and exit points to the commercial centre — one at Lorong Ulu Sungai Merah 35 in front of the 7-11 convenience store and the other one at Lorong Ulu Sungai Merah 32B2 in front of Sunlight Pharmacy.

“The current plan does not provide for any barrier openings directly in front of either location. While the business community agrees that no barrier opening should be allowed at Lorong Ulu Sungai Merah 35 to maintain traffic safety and efficiency, they propose that a controlled barrier opening at Lorong Ulu Sungai Merah 32B2 be approved.

“This opening should be regulated through the installation of traffic lights to ensure the safety of motorists entering and exiting the commercial centre from both directions,” she said.

Chang said the current plan also included a barrier opening at Lorong Ulu Sungai Merah 18 to allow access to the residential area near Everwin Enterprise Supermarket from the opposite side of the carriageway.

She said this should be reconsidered, as residents can instead use the business community’s proposal of a regulated barrier opening at Lorong Ulu Sungai Merah 32B2.

“This would allow accessibility for residents near the supermarket and customers, traders and suppliers into the commercial centre,” she said.

Chang said she was informed that the business operators at the commercial area had submitted a written petition, bearing more than 100 signatures, to the Land and Survey Department to voice their concerns and to appeal for the barrier opening.

She claimed they had also attempted to reach out to Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government Datuk Michael Tiang, but to date, have received no response.

She said this continued silence had caused the traders fearful for the survival of their businesses and their livelihoods, and that while infrastructure development and public safety were important, they must not come at the expense of existing businesses and residents.