RM150 MLN TO REPAIR ROADS DAMAGED BY FLOODS, LANDSLIDES ACROSS SABAH

24 JAN 2021

By Syabil Syafi

KUNDASANG: The State Works Ministry estimated that a total RM150 million is needed to be allocated for works to repair damaged roads, including bridges that were cut off due to continuous rain over the past few weeks.

Its minister Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin said the estimated allocations involved more than 100 roads that collapsed and were affected throughout the state.

"As we know, when continuous rains occur in Sabah, many infrastructures like roads and bridges would be collapsed or cut off, making it difficult for residents to pass the routes.

"The swift action of the Public Works Department (PDW) to implement the process of repairing the affected roads have allowed residents to use the routes," he said after visiting a landslide area near Kinabalu Park here, today.

Also present was Sabah Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment Datuk Jafry Ariffin.

According to Bung who is also the Sabah Deputy Chief Minister, only 17 roads out of the total 100 damaged roads that are currently impassable.

He said, the concessionaires were also given the responsibility to carry out maintenance on damaged or affected roads.

"However, there are roads that are not maintained by the concessionaires which will be repaired by the PWD.

"In terms of allocation, we will do it first and will discuss with the federal government if necessary," he added.

Meanwhile, Bung stated that his ministry will work with several government agencies to conduct further studies to ensure upland areas are safe to use for the locals.

He said, the study of earth movement also needs to be taken into account to ensure the stability of the land structure in order to avoid recurring landslides.

"Therefore, we need to have a more thorough discussion among the government agencies in the state," he added.

He said an estimated total of nearly RM40 million is also needed to repair the structure of the collapsed parking area near Kinabalu Park.

"Currently, we are making temporary roads for road users as there are no alternative routes.

"I also instructed for immediate repair works because this is an essential route for road users."