RM250,000 upgrade for landslide-hit road

Jafni (seated, middle) meeting locals in Taman Cantik, Kulai, as part of efforts to compile feedback on current issues in the Bukit Permai constituency.

MAINTENANCE work at Jalan Sengkang near Felda Inas, Kulai in Johor, is expected to start immediately as part of the road was destroyed in a landslide, says Bukit Permai assemblyman Datuk Mohd Jafni Md Shukor.

The cost of the upgrade is estimated at RM250,000 and will be borne by the Public Works Department (JKR).

“The landslide happened on the morning of March 18. Initial investigations revealed that it was caused by continuous heavy rain.

“On the same day, an inspection team from JKR was deployed to the scene.

“They covered the landslide area with tarp as a temporary measure while conducting surveillance,” Mohd Jafni said when contacted.

The former Kulai Municipal Council (MPKu) chief whip said JKR was in the midst of finalising the paperwork before they could start the groundwork.

“Usually, upgrading work like this will take up to a month.

“However, the completion date also depends on whether JKR will hand over the work to its concessionaire or offer an open tender for the job,” he said, adding that the public could use the alternative route via Felda Taib Andak.

On another matter, Mohd Jafni said he was currently on a tour to meet Bukit Permai residents under a mobile service centre programme.

“My team and I visit places around the constituency to get feedback on current issues in the area.

“The agenda is to collect a database for Bukit Permai so we can pinpoint the issues that we can manage or decide whether to get help from the state government and federal agencies,” he said.

Mohd Jafni added that it was also his way of thanking the 39,000 voters in Bukit Permai.

The database is expected to be completed by next month before it is handed over to the state government.

“The main concerns of people here include the lack of job opportunities and affordable homes, while petty traders face difficulties getting their business licence.

“I hope this database can shed some light on other issues as well and help us find solutions that work for all,” he added.