Kuala Lumpur: The Jalan Berungis (Route 503) upgrade project from Berungis Roundabout to Pekan Tuaran has achieved only 2.06 per cent physical progress as of June 30, significantly behind its targeted 3.18 per cent completion rate due to land acquisition delays.
The Federal Ministry of Works cited ongoing land acquisition issues as the primary cause of delays affecting the project to upgrade the 2.7-kilometer stretch.
These delays have also disrupted preliminary infrastructure work, including the relocation of water and electricity utilities.
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“Even after the second quarter has passed, no significant physical progress is visible in the area,” the Upko honorary president told Parliament on August 6.
The infrastructure project, which officially commenced on March 12, 2024, aims to transform the road into a four-lane dual carriageway with enhanced U5 specifications.
The upgrade includes constructing U-turn bridges and replacing existing culvert structures with new bridges.
The Ministry said land acquisition plans were only submitted to the Sabah Land and Survey Department on September 30, 2024, while the draft gazette declaration was forwarded to the State Attorney General’s office on October 9, 2024 and remains pending official approval.
The Ministry pledged to closely monitor the land acquisition process through enhanced cooperation with State agencies to prevent further delays. The project is scheduled for completion by March 31, 2028.
Madius called on all relevant agencies to expedite pending procedures, emphasiding that Tuaran residents have waited years for improved road infrastructure.
“I hope all involved agencies can act immediately for the benefit of local residents,” he said.
