BAU: Solar light is an alternative safety feature for road users, especially when driving at night.
Assistant Minister for Transport Datuk Henry Harry Jinep said 285 solar lights will be placed along the five-kilometre road from Bau to Batu Kitang, especially at blind corners and tight bends.
He also said that the project was a gift for the people of Bau, stressing that safety of road users was his priority.
Quoting a report and data from the Bau district police, Henry revealed that 2,014 accidents occurred along the road from 2015 to 2020.
“Of the total, 68 were fatal accidents, 104 involving serious injuries and others light injuries or some cases might not have been reported.
“Therefore, the government is committed to finding alternative ways to keep road users safe by placing solar lights along the five-kilometre stretch,” he told reporters after visiting the proposed new site of SK Segong, on Thursday (Feb 3).
Henry, who is the Tasik Biru assemblyman, said the project had been approved by Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg who had set aside RM2 million.
“With the placement of these lights, road users can enjoy the ride and feel safe when driving from the cities to villages, especially those going home late at night.
“So we need the solar lights at dark areas like tight bends and blind corners,” he explained.
He also noted that the solar lights had an advantage over electric lights as they could be moved to other spots.
“If we start a road construction, these solar lights can be moved and we can still have light, but if we use electric lights, they cannot be moved.
“That is why the Public Works Department (PWD) recommends that we use solar lights,” he said.
