Bentong bypass to solve traffic congestion

In fact, Works Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said the Bentong Bypass, implemented at a cost of RM578.25 million, would also boost the economy in the East Coast states as it would reduce the travel time and increase traffic safety.

He said the bypass project, which began near the Bentong Mara Junior Science College (MRSM), was designated as a priority project after traffic congestion became a major issue here, especially during weekends and festive seasons.

"The Bentong Bypass is an alternative route to the Federal Road, which can provide comfort, reduce traffic congestion and travel time for road users.

"The implementation of the project had also taken into account the views of local residents who wouldn't want it to be too far from Bentong for fear that the town would be deserted (upon completion of the project)," he said.

Fadillah said this to reporters after visiting the Bentong Bypass project site in Kampung Lebu here Thursday. Also present was Transport Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai, who is also the Member of Parliament for Bentong.

The Works Minister explained that the bypass project was part of the CSR Package 5 project, covering a total distance of 350km from Kuala Krai, Kelantan to Simpang Pelangi, Pahang, with an overall cost of RM6.6 billion.

The Bentong Bypass project is divided into three sections and the construction is being done in stages from Nov 5, 2015.

"It involves the construction of a four-lane highway with the Public Works Department (PWD) high-level R5 standards, an elevated interchange, a bridge and a vehicular box culvert (VBC)," he said.

Fadillah also expressed hope that the appointed contractor, Primercon Sdn Bhd, and the PWD as the supervising agency, would do a good job to ensure the project will be completed on time and on cost.

Meanwhile, Liow said the construction of the Bentong Bypass project would give an added value to the area, especially as the construction of the East Coast Rail Line (ECRL) would also involve the town.

"I thank the government for paying attention to the problem of traffic congestion here and for giving the Bentong Bypass project a priority.