Kuching’s Strategic Drainage Improvement Plan Unveiled
KUCHING (August 15) — In a recent announcement, Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, Deputy Premier and Batu Kawah assemblyman, revealed that the upgrade of the drainage systems within the Batu Kawah constituency will be executed in phases. This strategic approach is designed to address the critical need for improved drainage infrastructure across various housing areas in the constituency.
Comprehensive Upgrades for Batu Kawah
Back Lane Drainage Project: Enhancing Low-Cost Housing Areas
One of the key projects under this initiative involves upgrading the back lane drainage systems in low-cost housing areas, specifically Lorong RPR 28A6 and 28A4 Batu Kawa. The project, which will cost RM376,679, has been awarded through an open tender to Q & Q Services. It includes replacing existing earthen drains with reinforced concrete drains and widening the roads to improve parking facilities for residents.
Dr Sim emphasized the importance of this project during a recent ceremony organized by the Padawan Municipal Council (MPP). He noted that these upgrades are essential for alleviating flooding issues and improving overall infrastructure in the area.
Expansion of Rural Transformation Projects (RTP)
In addition to the back lane project, Dr Sim highlighted several other significant upgrades included in this year’s Rural Transformation Project (RTP). These improvements will cover:
- Drainage Reconstruction: Back lanes in Lorong RPR 24/24A1A/18/26/24 Batu Kawa and Lorong Stephen Yong 2K1 will see substantial reconstruction.
- Embankment Protection: Works at Desa Wira 17A.
- New Drainage Installations: A new drainage system will be set up in Kampung Stapok Melayu, Batu Kawa.
These projects are part of an extensive effort to modernize the area’s infrastructure and ensure better flood management and water flow.
Infrastructure and Facility Upgrades
The RTP also includes several other infrastructure improvements:
- Building Upgrades: Renovations and improvements will be made to various community facilities, including:
- Dewan Serbaguna R Piang Kampung Sinar Budi Baru
- Masjid Darus Sakinah in Kampung Sinar Budi Baru
- Surau Darul Salam in Kampung Sinar Budi Lama
- Futsal field and facilities at Dewan Perpaduan RPR Phase 1 Batu Kawa
- Balai Raya Desa Wira Lot Lorong 20 and Lorong 5I
- SMK Batu Kawa
- Recreational Park Upgrade: The existing park at Green Acres Estate, Lorong 2 Batu Kawa, will be revamped to enhance recreational opportunities for residents.
- Water Pipeline and Streetlight Improvements: Significant upgrades will be carried out, including:
- Water pipeline upgrades at Lorong 1 Jalan Sejijak and Jalan Kiung Kit off Jalan Batu Kawa
- Installation of new streetlights and upgrading of existing ones in Batu Kawa, Phase 4
Dr Sim underscored the necessity of these projects, noting that drainage work, in particular, is complex and requires meticulous planning. The phased approach will ensure that all issues are addressed efficiently over time, rather than attempting to resolve everything at once.
The RTP: A Commitment to Community Development
Dr Sim also reiterated his commitment to the Rural Transformation Project, which encompasses 18 RTPs totaling RM5 million for this year. These projects are part of a broader strategy by the Sarawak government to enhance local infrastructure and provide better facilities and services to residents.
“Drainage improvements have always been a priority in our RTP planning,” Dr Sim stated. “This ongoing focus reflects our dedication to ensuring that all constituents, including those in Batu Kawa, benefit from enhanced infrastructure.”
The phased upgrades are expected to significantly improve living conditions, manage flooding more effectively, and provide better community amenities.
Conclusion
The phased drainage system upgrades in Batu Kawah represent a substantial investment in the area’s infrastructure. With projects spanning drainage improvements, facility upgrades, and water management enhancements, the Batu Kawah constituency is set to experience notable advancements in local development.