KUCHING: The implementation of the Autonomous Rail Transit (ART) system and construction of new roads will alleviate traffic congestion in Batu Kawa arising from the area’s development.
Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg said upon the completion of the first phase of ART by 2025, the second phase beyond 2025 would be extended to Batu Kawa, Bau and Sematan.
“That is our next plan for ART. After the completion of the first phase in 2025, from 2025 to 2030 we will develop ART to pass through Batu Kawa.
“This is the overall development of Kuching District – in which we have Kuching, Batu Kawa, Bau, and Lundu. We have a master plan for that,” he said.
Abang Johari revealed this when officiating at the earth breaking ceremony of the ‘Sports/Community Hall with Innovative Hub’ People’s Project at the former site of Ang Cheng Ho Quarry, Jalan Datuk Stephen Yong here on Tuesday (Jan 5).
Earlier in his speech, Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Seri Dr Sim Kui Hian highlighted Batu Kawa’s traffic congestion issues, requesting for new roads and road upgrades. He also proposed for ART to be implemented in the area.
“Batu Kawa has become very congested, meaning we have to build more roads. We will build roads from here to Matang, that is, at the Yayasan Sarawak roundabout,” said Abang Johari.
He said this meant there would be three traffic flow outlets into and out of Batu Kawa with this new road, which would be constructed under the 12th Malaysia Plan.
“This will meet with the circular ring road, and from there it will head towards the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) and there is a bridge to Samarahan,” he said.
Also present at the ceremony were State Secretary Datuk Amar Jaul Samion, Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) chairman Lo Khere Chiang, and other representatives.
