BAU: The anticipated Tondong-Sebuku concrete bridge was officially opened for public use on Jan 10, marking a new route for commuters between Tondong and Bau.
"The bridge's opening is not just a boon for the residents in Tondong, Sebuku, and Singai areas but also for those travelling from Kuching to Bau and back," said Sarawak's Deputy Minister of Transport (Maritime and Riverine) Datuk Henry Harry Jinep at the bridge's early launching ceremony.
"Commuters can now breathe a sigh of relief as the journey from Tondong to the Bau Police Station via the market area will now only take five minutes. This is a significant improvement from the old route that took 15 to 20 minutes," Henry said.
He also mentioned that the construction of the bridge, which began in 2019, was initially scheduled for completion in 2021. However, it faced delays due to the Covid-19 pandemic and certain geological issues, extending the project timeline to four years.
Jinep acknowledged the efforts of the contractors and the Sarawak Public Works Department in completing the bridge project, which spans 120 kilometres and had a budget of RM10.59 million.
The bridge is now operational and serves as, potentially improving travel efficiency in the region.