SIBU: The upgrading of Jalan Oya is expected to be completed by December 5 this year.
 
Deputy Minister for Infrastructure and Port Development, Datuk Ir. Aidel Lariwoo said the progress of the 1.44-kilometre project to upgrade the existing road into a dual carriageway is currently ahead of schedule by 1.58 per cent.
 
“The target completion is set for December 5 this year, and the contractor is expected to complete all works on time. 
 
“We will also be installing three smart traffic lights along Jalan Oya,” he said when met by reporters after a working visit to the project site on Monday.
 
Datuk Ir. Aidel added that the tender for the next phase may be opened soon, involving an additional one kilometre under the supervision of the Public Works Department (JKR).
 
Meanwhile, Bukit Assek Assemblyman, Joseph Chieng Jin Ek expressed his hope that the opening of the dual carriageway will help reduce traffic congestion in Sibu.
 
“As we know, this is the first phase, and it is the busiest section of the road here.
 
“We hope that once this dual carriageway is completed, it will help alleviate traffic congestion,” he said.
 
He also informed that the Sibu Municipal Council began installing traffic lights on Monday.
 
“Another challenge is the urgent need to install traffic lights, as opening a dual carriageway without traffic lights will cause issues,” he noted. -UKASnews