The State Government has been urged to consult the Pan Borneo Highway contractors on the poor state of the road construction in the state and to reevaluate road concession agreements.
Dr Yusof Yacob, Sindumin Assemblyman, said many tragic accidents occurred as a result of poor road conditions along the Pan Borneo highway, which was left unsupervised by irresponsible contractors.
He took note of complaints from the public on the poor state of road conditions which was riddled with holes resulting from poor construction
“Many people have died in road accidents and suffered serious injuries due to the state of our roads,” he said, noting poor road conditions also damaged vehicles and longer travel time.
Speaking during the debate session of the State Legislative Assembly yesterday, Dr Yusof called on contractors to ensure road are in safe conditions at all times. “Uneven and damage roads needs to be immediately rectified to reduce hazard risk to road users,” he said.
Moving forward, Dr Yusof also proposed road concessions be managed by concession companies. “ The people are not too concerned on the profits garnered by these companies but its crucial to ensure the safety of roads in the state, damaged roads must be rectified immediately,” he said.
The explanation by concession companies that road maintenance work is based on rotation is unacceptable, he added
“Roads that are damaged must be repaired immediately, while overgrown grass and bushes must be trimmed without delay,” he said.
In order to ensure the welfare of the people, Dr Yusof called for a review of concession agreements in light of non-compliance and agreement violations