Nanta: The new Marang Bridge project across the Sungai Marang, on the Federal Route 3 (FT003) from Kuala Terengganu to Kuantan, here is expected to be completed by January 2027. Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said this new bridge project, implemented by the Public Works Department (JKR), began on Dec 9, 2021, and its physical progress has reached 54.7 per cent as of June 30.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the project received two 'extensions of time' due to land acquisition issues, but these have been resolved. The contractor and officials have assured that there will be no more extensions. The project, with a contract cost of RM338 million, involves a 2.5 kilometre-long stretch along the FT003 route from Kuala Terengganu to Kuantan. This includes the construction of the 220-metre-long Sungai Marang Bridge and a 680-metre-long flyover across Marang town, as well as upgrading the existing road over a distance of 1.5 kilometres.

The bridge, which has four two-way lanes, is expected to resolve congestion on the existing bridge, especially during festive seasons. The existing bridge, built in the 1950s, is narrow and low, making it difficult for fishing boats to pass through. The new bridge will provide significant benefits to local residents by alleviating traffic congestion during peak times and festivals, and saving time.

Additionally, the bridge's construction is designed to allow fishing boats from Zone C to navigate further upstream without being obstructed by the height of the existing bridge. The new bridge is expected to stimulate local economic growth, particularly in the fisheries and maritime logistics sectors for the Marang district.

The new bridge is among those listed in the bridge replacement programme and is a priority for implementation as requested by the Terengganu government in the 12th Malaysia Plan (MP12) following the increase in traffic.