Kota Kinabalu: Elopura Assemblyman Calvin Chong has voiced serious concern and dissatisfaction over the prolonged delay of the road replacement project at Batu 1.5, a main route leading to the city centre, which is alleged to have been left unattended for almost two years with no clear progress.
He said the project, which should have been completed within a reasonable timeframe, has now become a burden to the public as parts of the road have been closed due to unfinished works.
“This situation has resulted in chronic traffic congestion, particularly during morning and evening peak hours, thereby disrupting the daily movement of residents, road users, and traders in the surrounding areas,” he said on Wednesday.
He stated that the failure of the implementing agency to complete the project not only reflects weaknesses in project management, but also raises serious concerns regarding road user safety.
A road closure left unresolved for such a long period poses risks of accidents and undermines public confidence in the delivery of public services.
In this regard, he has called on the Public Works Department (JKR) to provide a detailed explanation on the current status of the project, including the actual causes of the delay, corrective actions that have been or will be taken, as well as a clear timeline on when the project will resume and be fully completed.
He also urged JKR to immediately implement more effective temporary measures to ease the difficulties faced by road users.
These include the provision of safer and smoother alternative routes, improved traffic flow management, adequate installation of safety signage, and close monitoring of the project area to prevent any unwanted incidents.
“The public has the right to transparent information and concrete action regarding infrastructure projects funded by public money,” he explained.
As a proactive step and a demonstration of his seriousness on this matter, Chong informed that he personally visited the JKR offices to submit an official letter regarding the project delay during the Sabah State Legislative Assembly sitting.
The letter aims to demand an official explanation, a clear implementation schedule, and immediate commitment from the relevant parties to resolve the long-standing problem faced by the public.
“This issue has dragged on for almost two years and the patience of the people has its limits. I hope JKR will take this matter seriously, provide an immediate response, and take firm and effective action for the safety, comfort, and well-being of road users,” he stressed.
