LAHAD DATU: Residents and road users along the Lahad Datu-Tungku Road are grappling with daily traffic congestion and flash flooding, causing significant disruptions to their daily lives.
This key road, which serves as the only route connecting Lahad Datu to Tungku and the Felda Sahabat region, is increasingly burdened by traffic jams, especially during peak hours. Morning and evening rush hours are particularly problematic, with the situation worsening on school days.
Local residents have voiced frustration over the prolonged travel times, particularly when commuting to work or dropping off and picking up children from school.
Sabri Sanusi, a local resident, explained that the congestion during peak hours forces him to leave his house as early as 6:30am to avoid being late for work.
“I have to leave even earlier on school days, as the road becomes even more congested. In the evenings, the traffic jams are so severe that sometimes I don’t reach home until 7pm, even though I leave work at 5pm. We urgently need this road to be upgraded to a dual carriageway to resolve the issue,” Sabri said.
Mohd Halizam Mohd Jaidin, a father of two, highlighted the unpredictability of traffic, which often leads to his children arriving late for school.
“Even when I leave early, the congestion patterns change, and my children end up being late. I feel bad for them, as they have to wake up much earlier just to arrive before the school gates open,” he shared.
He emphasized that urgent action is needed, as the Lahad Datu-Tungku Road is the only access route for residents.
The challenges along the Lahad Datu-Tungku Road are further exacerbated during the rainy season. Muliyono Muslimin, a local resident, explained that flash floods regularly submerge the road at Jalan Tengah Nipah, cutting off access to Tungku.
During floods, small vehicles are unable to pass, forcing road users to wait for the water to recede.
“When the road is submerged, the traffic congestion becomes even worse because there’s no alternative route. This road is the only connection to town, hospitals, and essential services, so we urgently need a solution,” Muliyono stated.
Segama Assemblyman Datuk Mohamaddin Ketapi, when contacted, confirmed that the issue has been raised at higher levels.
He acknowledged the ongoing challenges and emphasized the importance of taking swift action.
“Upgrading the Lahad Datu-Tungku Road to a dual carriageway would not only alleviate the congestion but also bring new opportunities to the region.
“This project aligns with plans to develop a new airport in the area, which would boost economic growth and attract investment, particularly in the Palm Oil Industrial Cluster (POIC) in Lahad Datu,” he said.
