Dr Yii (right) and Tan take a closer look at the progress of the work.
KUCHING (March 2): There is an urgent need to expedite the long-delayed construction of the new drainage outlet for storm water discharge at Jalan Masjid, Jalan Market and Lebuh Java, said Bandar Kuching MP Dr Kelvin Yii.
He said the project costing about RM7 million was first expected to be completed by January 2019, but now the whole project is expected to be completed and safe for usage by the end of April 2021.
He pointed out that based on the explanation from the developer, they are currently in the last phase of construction and targeting so that most works especially on Jalan Masjid and Jalan Market can be done by March including the resurfacing of the road.
“So, due to the delay, that area still experience flash floods when it was supposed to solve the flash floods problem in Kuching itself.
“That is why we hope the project can be completed as soon as possible for the good and safety of the people. We will continue to monitor as we do not want any unwanted accidents due to something that could have been prevented especially if it risks injury or even worst death to those affected,” he said today.
Dr Yii also said the project’s slow progress has caused so much inconvenience and also posed a significant danger to the road users, and also business owners and those working in the vicinity.
“Surrounding that areas, business owners and road users have given feedback to us how the long-delayed construction has affected their business and livelihood.
“On top of that, there is a government clinic in the area which is also constantly filled with members of the public that come to seek for medical attention. Such delays are not just affecting their livelihood but putting their lives and safety at risk,” he said.
Dr Yii, together with former Stampin MP Julian Tan and Anthony Chin from DAP Socialist Youth Kuching, had visited the site yesterday to monitor the progress of the long-delayed drainage upgrades along Jln Masjid, Lebuh Java and Jln Market.
They also took the opportunity to speak to the developer and contractor of the project to find out about the updates of the whole construction and the expected finishing date.
“End of last year, I had a dialogue with the Mayor of Kuching City North Commission (DBKU) and his officers to request his urgent intervention and to expedite the whole process for the convenience and also safety of the public including to better understand the problem that is being faced and more importantly the progress of the whole upgrade.
“I was informed that DBKU will set up a task force to analyse all details of case including addressing any dispute and obstacle and to expedite the project. They have given their assurance that they are prioritising this project and will look into resolving the remaining outstanding issues,” added Dr Yii.