KUCHING, Aug 31: The much-anticipated construction of the Darul Hana underpass on Jalan Tun Datuk Patinggi Abang Haji Muhammad Salahuddin in Petra Jaya is set to commence on September 4, marking the beginning of a significant infrastructure development in Sarawak. The Land Custody and Development Authority (LCDA) has announced that construction activities will last until December 3, 2024, with a focus on developing a temporary road on the median to facilitate the underpass construction.
Timeline and Project Overview
The Darul Hana underpass project, which aims to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion in Petra Jaya, comes as part of the state’s ongoing infrastructure enhancement plans. According to LCDA, the entire project is expected to take two years, with the contract period running from July 15, 2024, to July 14, 2026.
Project Highlights:
- Start Date: September 4, 2024
- End Date for Temporary Road Development: December 3, 2024
- Full Project Duration: July 15, 2024 – July 14, 2026
- Location: Jalan Tun Datuk Patinggi Abang Haji Muhammad Salahuddin, Petra Jaya, Sarawak
The development of the temporary road on the median is crucial as it will facilitate the initial phases of the underpass construction, ensuring that traffic flow is maintained, albeit with some adjustments.
Advisory for Road Users: Safety First
As the construction gets underway, LCDA has urged road users to exercise caution when navigating the area. Motorists should adhere to all traffic management instructions and signage to ensure the safety of everyone involved.
Key Safety Tips for Motorists:
- Follow all posted traffic management instructions.
- Keep an eye out for construction personnel and heavy machinery.
- Plan your journey ahead of time to avoid delays, especially during peak hours.
- Be patient and considerate of other road users during this period of construction.
In a statement, LCDA emphasized the importance of cooperation from road users, highlighting that these measures are in place to minimize disruptions while keeping the public safe. They also noted that any changes to the construction schedule, including adjustments to dates, times, or areas affected, will be promptly communicated to the public.
Potential Traffic Disruptions: Plan Your Journey
The construction phase is expected to bring about some level of disruption to the usual traffic flow along Jalan Tun Salahuddin. To minimize the impact on commuters, LCDA advises road users to plan their routes in advance and consider alternative roads where possible.
Alternative Routes to Consider:
- For those heading towards the city centre, consider using Jalan Astana or Jalan Bako as alternative routes.
- Motorists heading towards Petra Jaya can opt for Jalan Matang or Jalan Demak.
With the temporary road on the median of Jalan Tun Salahuddin being developed, traffic lanes will be slightly adjusted, potentially leading to slower movement in and out of the area. LCDA has assured that all necessary precautions are being taken to manage traffic effectively and to keep the public informed throughout the construction period.
LCDA’s Commitment and Public Engagement
LCDA has acknowledged that construction projects of this magnitude inevitably lead to some inconvenience. In a bid to maintain transparent communication with the public, LCDA has committed to providing timely updates on the project’s progress through various channels, including their official website and social media platforms.
For Inquiries and Complaints:
- LCDA Hotline: 082-235944
- Official Portal: www.lcda.gov.my
The agency has also expressed gratitude for the public’s understanding and cooperation during this phase of development, assuring that every effort will be made to minimize disruptions and maintain safety standards.
Conclusion
The Darul Hana underpass project is set to transform traffic management in Petra Jaya, enhancing connectivity and reducing congestion in one of Kuching’s busiest areas. While road users are urged to remain patient during this period, the long-term benefits of smoother traffic flow and improved road safety are expected to significantly outweigh the temporary inconveniences.
Stay tuned to official channels for further updates on the Darul Hana underpass construction and remember to drive safely as we all look forward to a more efficient road network in Sarawak.