KUCHING: Alternative routes have been provided at The Northbank with the recent closure of a road in the area for the construction of an Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) station. 

According to a joint statement by Sarawak Metro Sdn Bhd together with Ibraco Construction Sdn Bhd and China Railway Engineering Corporation (M) Sdn Bhd (ICJV), the project involves the stretch of road near the Avona Residence serviced apartments within The Northbank area. 

“The closure will remain in effect until the completion of Station SM07. The ART station at The Northbank will be part of the development of the Blue Line Package 1 of the Kuching Urban Transportation System (KUTS) project,” said the joint statement on Sunday. 

Meanwhile, a representative of ICJV as the contract of the Blue Line Package 1 recently met several residents of the affected area to explain about the need for the road closure and the new alternative routes to ease their movement. 

These residents included business operators at the nearby shophouses as well as those staying at Avona Residence. 

“Sarawak Metro and the Blue Line Package 1 contractor are committed to ensuring that disruptions to traffic flow in the area will be minimised during the construction of the station and dedicated lanes for the ART. 

“As part of these efforts, Sarawak Metro, through its contractor will also continue to engage with the affected residents to ensure they are updated on the relevant developments of the KUTS project in their area,” said the joint statement. 

The joint statement added that the Blue Line is being developed in two packages from Rembus in Kota Samarahan to Hikmah Exchange. 

Package 1 involves the construction and completion of infrastructure works from Rembus to Stutong.

As for the Blue Line Package 2 which was awarded to a joint venture company comprised of Perbena Emas Sdn Bhd and China Road & Bridge Corporation, it will involve the construction and completion of infrastructure works from Stutong to Hikmah Exchange in the city centre. 

“Apart from constructing dedicated lanes and stations for the KUTS project, the scope of work for the Blue Line Package 1 and Package 2 also include road widening and other essential infrastructure enhancements,” said the joint statement.  -UKASnews