Several roads in Kuching City to be closed this Sunday to make way for Sukma XXI Baton Relay
Major Event to Impact Traffic in Kuching City Centre
KUCHING (June 22): Several key roads in Kuching City will be temporarily closed this Sunday (June 23) to accommodate the Kuching divisions Sukma and Para Sukma XXI Baton Relay. The event, which is expected to draw significant participation, will necessitate careful planning by motorists to avoid congestion and delays.
Baton Relay Details and Notable Attendees
Kuching police chief ACP Ahsmon Bajah announced that the main event will commence at 5.30 am at the Kuching Waterfront. The ceremony will be graced by Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, with an estimated 3,000 participants joining the run.
To ensure the smooth conduct of the event, the police will implement road closures in stages from 6 am until 8.15 am.
Roads Affected by Closures
The following roads will be closed during the event:
- Jalan Main Bazaar
- Jalan Tun Abang Haji Openg
- Jalan Haji Taha
- Jalan Gambir
- Jalan McDougall
- Jalan Tun Abang Haji Openg (repeated in the announcement)
- RTM traffic light intersection to Jalan Barrack
- Jalan Padungan Tunku Abdul Rahman
- Jalan Temple
- Jalan Main Bazaar (repeated in the announcement)
- Jalan Bukit Mata
These closures are necessary to facilitate the smooth flow of the relay and to ensure the safety of participants and spectators.
Alternative Routes for Motorists
To mitigate traffic disruptions, ACP Ahsmon Bajah suggested several alternative routes for motorists:
- For those traveling through Tabuan Road from Jalan Simpang Tiga: Use Jalan Central Timur or Jalan Ban Hock to avoid the Jalan McDougall intersection closure.
- For those from Jalan Haji Taha: Make a U-turn at the Mosque roundabout to bypass the Jalan Gambir closure.
- For those from Jalan Pending: Make a U-turn at the Sri Aman roundabout to avoid congestion on Jalan Padungan.
Parking Restrictions and Public Advisory
ACP Ahsmon Bajah also emphasized that the public should avoid parking their vehicles along the baton relay route. He urged residents and visitors to plan their journeys early to minimize inconvenience and ensure they reach their destinations on time.
Contact Information for Inquiries
For any inquiries or further information regarding the road closures and the baton relay event, the public can contact the Kuching District Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Division at 082-259900.
Summary
The Sukma XXI Baton Relay is a significant event for Kuching, bringing together thousands of participants and spectators. While it is a momentous occasion, it also necessitates temporary road closures and potential traffic disruptions. Motorists are encouraged to use alternative routes and plan their travel schedules accordingly to avoid any inconvenience. The police and event organizers are working diligently to ensure the event runs smoothly and safely.