By Norrasyidah Arshad
GOMBAK, Nov 3 — The Rawang-Batang Berjuntai road’s upgrades, fully completed in March this year, has alleviated traffic congestion in the Rawang area, especially during peak hours.
Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari said the project, completed simultaneously with the construction of a bridge over the North-South Expressway, also addresses the frequent flooding in the area.
Over 100,000 residents in and around Rawang have benefitted from the two projects, which costs nearly RM100 million.
“The issue of road congestion has persisted for a long time, over 20 years. This project has been delayed since 2009 due to low bids and the inability of the contractors to proceed.
“So, we reissued the tender, and work began in 2020, with the bridge starting in 2018. It should have been completed earlier, but it was delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic,” he said.
Amirudin was speaking at the exchange of documents for the two projects between Selangor Public Works Department director Lokman Nasir and Deputy State Secretary (Development) Datuk Johary Anuar yesterday.
The Menteri Besar added the Rawang area will experience rapid development once the Federal road project near the Rawang railway station up to the Plus toll intersection is completed in 2027.
“This project began last year for RM445 million. With its completion, connectivity will expand, including upgrading the Sungai Gong area.
“This will make the area free from congestion and pollution,” he said.