Kuala terengganu: The East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) project spanning four states - Kelantan, Terengganu, Pahang, and Selangor - has recorded 87 percent overall progress as of August. Transport Minister Anthony Loke highlighted that the Terengganu segment is among the fastest to be completed, primarily due to the early resolution of land issues and the relatively flat geographical terrain, which presented fewer construction challenges.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Loke mentioned that track works in Terengganu are nearing completion, with the only unfinished sections being from Bentong to Gombak, particularly the Genting Tunnel up to Gombak, which remains the most challenging segment. Loke shared this information with reporters after officiating the BAS.MY Kuala Terengganu Service Transformation Programme at Pasar Payang.

Loke further noted that progress in Kelantan and Terengganu remains on track, with most construction work there already completed. However, he pointed out that work progress in Pahang has been disrupted by incidents of cable theft. Over one kilometre of cables have been stolen, causing significant problems for the developer, who now needs to reassess their approach to maintain progress.

He also stated that discussions have been held with the Home Ministry and police, emphasizing the need for more aggressive measures, including stricter laws, to address the issue of cable theft. Loke added that besides causing heavy financial losses to the government, cable theft also poses risks to public safety.