KOTA KINABALU – Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Mohd Noor has approved the allocation of RM150 million to repair 41 damaged roads after continuous rain wreaked havoc in the state two weeks ago.
“We, in Sabah, are experiencing severe damage to roads and public property.
“I was made to understand that the damages to roads due to the continuous bad weather and flooding is estimated to cost RM150 million, while damages to public property costs RM135 million.”
Hajiji said the state government will request funding from the federal government for the repairs of all infrastructures under federal jurisdiction.
He said relevant departments have been directed to expedite the process so that repair works could start as soon as possible.
“We must address this issue because it has brought about enormous difficulties to road users, and has adversely affected the livelihood of the people.”
He added that the road linking Kota Kinabalu to Penampang and Tambunan is being repaired by the Public Works Department and accessible to traffic.
Speaking to reporters after inspecting the damaged road at Km 44.7 Jalan Penampang-Tambunan, Hajiji said based on the department’s report, 15 roads are damaged and inaccessible, 11 partially cut off, and 15 badly hit by continuous rain but remain accessible to vehicles.
Out of the 41 damaged roads, 37 belong to the state, while four are under the purview of the federal government.
Repairs for the collapsed road at Km 44.7 is estimated to cost RM5 million.
Apart from the Penampang-Tambunan road, other roads that are inaccessible include Jalan Nangoh-Paitan-Kanibongan; Jalan Apin Apin-Bundu Kg Tiga; Jalan Montenior-Hologilat; Jalan Bilangau Darat; Jalan Liu Malubang; Jalan Telaga (collapsed bridge); Jalan Rukom Kibuluh; Jalan Suang Duyung; Jalan Mengkubau Laut; Jalan Pinuludan; Jalan Pinampadan; and Jalan Bungaliou-Longkou Lama-Timbok.
Hajiji said the amount needed to repair these damages is quite big, but added that the state government will manage.
“We are doing our best and I hope the people will understand and be patient, as relevant agencies are carrying out works to reconnect all the damaged roads.”
Besides roads, the prolonged rain that began on January 11 has also caused flooding and landslides, as well as damaged properties and crops, with a total loss estimated at RM130 million. – The Vibes, January 26, 2021
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