Two major road projects worth RM236.64 million in Johor aim to cut travel times and improve safety, with one set to reduce a 45-minute journey to just 15 minutes.
JOHOR BAHRU: Two high-impact road projects worth RM236.64 million are underway in Johor to improve daily travel and regional connectivity.
Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Maslan said the works comprise the RM174.53 million upgrade of the Pasir Gudang Expressway and the RM62.11 million construction of Jalan Kampung Gembut to Kampung Teluk Baharu.
The Pasir Gudang Expressway upgrade began on Dec 3 and is scheduled for completion in December 2028.
It will widen a seven-kilometre stretch from four to six lanes to ease peak-hour congestion along key industrial corridors.
The new road in Kota Tinggi involves building a 3.1-kilometre stretch and a 320-metre bridge across Sungai Sedili Besar.
Construction begins on Dec 17 and is also slated for completion in December 2028.
Once finished, the Kota Tinggi road will provide a safer alternative to the current narrow plantation route.
It is expected to slash travel time for local residents from 45 minutes to just 15 minutes.
Ahmad announced the details after a handover ceremony for letters of acceptance to the project contractors.
He also provided an update on national project approvals, noting that 54 projects worth RM2.96 billion have been approved as of Dec 1.
These comprise 17 projects under the Works Ministry and 36 under the Rural and Regional Development Ministry.
Commenting on nationwide sick projects, Ahmad said management and financial issues are the primary causes, accounting for 75% of cases.
He stated that although only 5% of projects are classified as sick, the ministry views the matter seriously.
“Warning letters will be issued,” he said, affirming firm action against contractors who fail to meet schedules and standards.
