JOHOR BARU: Johor will soon have its first wildlife crossing along the main road connecting Kahang and Mersing, says state executive councillor Ling Tian Soon.
The state health and environment committee chairman said the viaduct will be built along Federal Route FT50, an area that has seen several accidents involving wildlife.
“The area, also known as the Central Forest Spine (CFS), is surrounded by forest and serves as the boundary between the Labis and Mersing reserve forests and Kota Tinggi.
"As such, wildlife often cross this road to move between the two forest areas.
“Previously, video recordings of animals such as the Malayan tiger, elephants, Malayan tapirs, leopards and others crossing the area went viral,” he said on Facebook after a recent visit to the site.
"The construction of this dedicated crossing is necessary to ensure the safety of both road users and wildlife," he added.
Ling said the upgraded road would stretch 1.275km, including a 200m viaduct bridge measuring 8m high.
"Special vegetation will be planted beneath the viaduct to attract and guide wildlife to use the structure," he said.
He said the RM66mil project covers preliminary studies, land, geology, design, relocation of infrastructure, temporary road construction and the viaduct itself.
The project is expected to be completed by February 2028.
