PHASE one of work to improve the one-way traffic dispersal project in Tapah, Perak has been completed at a cost of RM2.2mil, using funds from the Works Ministry.
Speaking during a site visit, Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi observed that traffic flow was smooth in the area following the phase one completion.
“Prior to the site visit, we had a meeting at the district Public Works Department (JKR) office, where many things were discussed regarding future improvement works,” he said, reported Bernama.
Also present at the site were Works Ministry secretary-general Datuk Seri Azman Ibrahim, Chenderiang assemblyman Choong Shin Heng and Ayer Kuning assemblyman Dr Mohamad Yusri Bakir.
Perak Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad had previously announced that work to improve the one-way traffic dispersion system in Tapah town began on April 7 and was expected to be completed within three weeks.
Meanwhile, Nanta said the ministry would scrutinise a proposal to widen the Sungai Batang Padang Bridge as a long-term improvement to the traffic dispersal project.
“The ministry has received the proposal (for the bridge widening exercise).
“We will need to study it first, but since the proposed project is in Perak, we have to check with the state government on its infrastructure improvement priorities.
“If this proposal is given the highest priority, it will be easy to submit a request to the Economy Ministry for approval.
“I understand that if we add one more lane, it may cost RM15mil. We will see how to raise the funds needed for the project,” he said.
On the construction progress of the West Ipoh Span Expressway (WISE) connecting Gopeng to Kuala Kangsar, Nanta said the ministry had handed the approval letter to the developer and it needed to carry out the necessary works within a stipulated period.
It was previously reported that the 60km-long WISE highway, an alternative to the Menora Tunnel stretch of the North–South Expressway, will feature three lanes in both directions.
The new highway will start in Gopeng, passing through Batu Gajah, Siputeh, Manong, Tronoh, Beko and Seri Iskandar, before ending at Kuala Kangsar.
