KOTA KINABALU: A key road linking west coast Sabah to the interior, which was closed after bing hit by a major landslide, is expected to be reopened within the next three days, says Datuk Shahelmey Yahya.
However, the Deputy Chief Minister III said the Kimanis - Keningau road's reopening would depend on weather conditions over the next few days.
He said landslide clearing and slope rehabilitation works at two locations were almost completed.
"Looking at the current progress of the work, I expect the cleaning and cutting of the slopes involved to be completed within two to three days from now.
"However, it is also subject to weather conditions, this afternoon the weather is a little rainy, but the clearing and rehabilitation works could still be carried out," the state Works Minister said during a site visit Tuesday (Mar 18).
Two landslides during heavy rains about two weeks ago at KM11.2 and KM14.3 of Jalan Kimanis-Keningau that cut through the Crocker Range had forced the closure of the road.
Shahelmey said that apart from the cleaning and slope works, the contractor will also install road barriers to ensure the safety of users when it opens later.
"At KM14, there is also a temporary road that has been completed but it is only suitable for light vehicles.
“So, I advise the public to wait for a notice from the Sabah Public Works Department on the road's opening to users,” he said, adding that the contractor was carrying out works everyday and late into the evenings.
"I am quite satisfied with the progress of this work after this road was closed for almost or more than 10 days ago,” he added.
