Ulu Paku-Ulu Kota road project ahead of schedule, says Uggah

BETONG: The construction of the Ulu Paku-Ulu Kota road crossing Bukit Saban, Krian and Pakan is now 4.4 per cent complete or 44 days ahead of schedule.

Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said the road project which will connect the interior areas of the three constituencies, costs RM247 million and is expected to be completed by 2027.

“However, after discussions with the Public Works Department (JKR), it is anticipated that it could be completed by 2026,” he said.

He announced this during the site visit on the proposed construction of the Ulu Paku-Ulu Kota Link road and the upgrading of existing Ulu Paku Road, Betong Division yesterday Dec 12.

Uggah (6th left) inspects the progress of the Ulu Paku-Ulu Kota Link road. Photo: UKAS

“We are happy because the project has finally become a reality. A part of this road was previously used as access for building the electricity grid transmission line. But it has deteriorated and is no longer passable.

“At the same time, we are thankful that the Sarawak government under the Premier and through Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) has approved the project under one of the Second Trunk Road packages,” Uggah added.

The Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development also hoped that the contractor would continue to carry out the project smoothly.

“Although we know that the upcoming months of January and February are expected to be the rainy season, the contractors also have experience dealing with such situations.

“We also hope that the JKR will conduct the necessary monitoring. Meanwhile, the three of us, as representatives here, with myself in Bukit Saban, Tan Sri William Mawan in Pakan, and Friday Belik in Krian, will also jointly monitor.

“This is because we feel this road is crucial, especially for the benefit of the residents in the interior areas,” he said.

The road stretch will shorten the travel distance from Sarikei to Betong compared to the existing Pan Borneo Highway stretch.

Earlier, Uggah attended a meeting and a briefing on the proposed project at the JKR Betong Division office.

Once completed, the road will link the Ulu Paku area within Betong district to the Ulu Kota area in Pakan district, and will become an alternative route from Betong towards Sarikei or Sibu.