By: Zaki Salleh
TAPAH: After more than 20 years of traffic congestion, Tapah town is finally set to enjoy a smoother and more systematic traffic flow, thanks to the implementation of a one-way road system.
The traffic dispersal project, which began on August 23 last year at a cost of RM2.2 million, is now 97% complete and expected to be fully operational by the end of May.
Since the one-way system was introduced, traffic congestion in the town has reportedly been reduced by 30% to 50%, along with a drop in intersection-related accidents.
The short-term project, spearheaded by the Batang Padang District Public Works Department (JKR) in collaboration with local authorities, includes the closure of two main traffic light intersections and various road infrastructure upgrades.
For long-term planning, the state government is looking to further ease traffic flow by constructing a bypass route in the area.
One of the proposed upgrades includes widening the existing bridge, estimated to cost around RM15 million.
Earlier, Works Minister Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi visited Tapah to inspect the progress of the one-way road project.
He was briefed on the development by District Engineer Ir. Ilanchelvan Polanippan at the Batang Padang JKR office.
