SIBU: The Miri-Sibu stretch of the Pan Borneo Highway is deemed to be unsafe due to the presence potholes.
A displeased Works Minister Baru Bian said it would be dangerous to road users, especially motorists traveling at night.
Having tested the Miri to Bintulu road on Saturday night and Bintulu to Sibu stretch on Sunday, the Selangau MP was less then impressed with the work.
“I want to say I am not happy,” he said here, today.
“There are many potholes and these pose a danger to road users, especially at night when visibility is poor,” he said.
Baru said he understood the challenges faced by contractors, but said they must adhere to certain standards and as such they needed to buck up.
“I care about the safety of road users.
“Although I understand the challenges faced by contractors, nevertheless I warn them, resolve this matter immediately,” he said.
“My ministry will be monitoring all works very closely and I will not compromise on this.”
Baru told Bernama that the RM120 million 1.2km-long Batang Rajang twin bridge, was expected to be opened to the public in April, two months ahead of schedule.
“The people will enjoy a more comfortable and efficient road network with the completion of the project,” he said.
The bridge, which is the longest of 115 bridges built under the Pan Borneo Highway project, is under Work Package 07 stretching from the Bintangor junction in Sarikei division to Sungai Kua Bridge in Selangau district.
Implemented by Hock Seng Lee-Dhaya Maju Infrastructure Asia JV, the project will be a catalyst for the Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy (SCORE) and development of surrounding areas, especially commercial centres and industrial estates along the Pan Borneo Highway.