Daro: Routine maintenance, including grass cutting and pothole repairs, is being implemented at the Central Spine Road (LTU) Project Packages 3B and 3C as a temporary effort to alleviate traffic congestion ahead of the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi announced that these tasks are being conducted by Roadcare (M) Sdn Bhd along Persiaran Raya near Taman Wangi. The initiative aims to enhance road conditions and provide increased comfort for motorists navigating the area.

The Minister emphasized that these short-term measures are designed to mitigate two-kilometer-long traffic jams that frequently occur during festive periods and school holidays, while the government works on a more permanent solution. "We are aware of the traffic congestion in this area. For now, we will improve the road conditions before assessing the need for further funding and follow-up action," Nanta stated while inspecting the LTU Packages 3B and 3C project site.

For longer-term improvements, pavement maintenance is scheduled to be conducted by the Public Works Department. This will take place through a quotation process that is expected to begin in March. Nanta further explained that the previous contractor was terminated due to procedural issues after it was discovered that an additional RM90 million was necessary to fully complete Packages 3B and 3C.

"We have submitted a request for additional funding to the Ministry of Economy and are awaiting a decision. We hope the process can be expedited so that a new contractor can be appointed and the project completed within the stipulated timeframe," Nanta elaborated.

Previously, there were reports from users of the Gua Musang-Kuala Lipis road who claimed that incomplete works on LTU Packages 3B, 3C, and 3D have led to unusually severe congestion, particularly during school holidays.