BAU: The tender to upgrade the old Bau – Kuching road into a dual carriageway will be out by April next year.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the road upgrading project costing about RM100 million has been approved.
“The tender will be out in April next year and the Public Works Department (PWD) will manage the project.
“In three years’ time, when this road upgrading project is ready, we can develop the potential areas between Bau and Kuching,” he said.
He was speaking during a Sarawakku Sayang 2022 programme at Siniawan bazaar near here on Thursday.
He pointed out that with better road connectivity, including the Pan Borneo Highway, the state government could continue its effort in developing the tourism industry in Bau, Lundu and Sematan.
“These are among the areas that we can develop as a tourism hub. And we have been recognised as Sarawak Delta Geo Park as well as one of the tourist attraction areas in UNESCO.
“This means that there are stronger attractions for tourists to come to this area,” he said.
Earlier, Serembu assemblyman, Miro Simuh, in his welcoming speech said there was a critical need to upgrade the Bau-Kuching link road.
“We know that these roads are in a critical condition. Based on PWD records, the daily road usage is very high, with more than 4,000 motorists plying the road daily.
“And almost every week, accidents happen on this road. Therefore, we really hope that the state government could speed up the upgrading works.
“The road upgrade will not only ensure safety of motorists but will also help intensify the economic activities of the local communities,” he said.
