By Zaki Salleh
GERIK: Maintenance and resurfacing works on the Gerik-Jeli stretch of the East-West Highway (Jalan Raya Timur-Barat, JRTB) will begin soon, with funding already approved by the government.
These works will commence once the Pavement Condition Assessment (PCA) report is received by the Ministry of Works (KKR).
Minister of Works, Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, stated that a total of RM80 million has been allocated for maintenance works, including road resurfacing.
According to him, the PCA report is currently being prepared and will serve as a critical guide for subsequent pavement-related actions.
“Non-pavement works such as guardrail installations and signboards are already underway, with 10% progress so far, and are expected to be completed by August 2025.
“The site of the tragic accident at Section 170.4 is also included in the solar lighting installation program to improve safety at dangerous bends.
“Work is set to begin this July and is expected to be completed by October 2025,” he said in a statement.
He conducted a site visit to the accident location where 15 students from Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) lost their lives at KM 53 of the East-West Highway (JRTB) in Gerik.
He noted that the current allocation is insufficient to carry out repairs along the entire 200km stretch of the highway.
However, the Ministry is making every effort to distribute the funds to repair the most critical sections and road furniture.
“Improvements are being made gradually in phases, based on the allocations received from the government.
“For the year 2025, RM55 million has been allocated for maintenance works on the East-West Highway FT004,” he added.
