New Road And Bridge Connecting Jerantut And Lipis Brings Relief

LIPIS, Oct 23 (Bernama) -- A newly built road and bridge connecting the Jerantut and Lipis districts has provided significant relief to residents who had long relied on a poorly maintained, lengthy, and risky route, especially during the monsoon season.

According to Menang Idaman Sdn Bhd (MISB), the contractor for the project, the new road connects four villages - Kampung Labu through Kampung Batu Balak in Jerantut, and Kampung Gemunchur and Kampung Mela in Kuala Lipis.

“This development offers several benefits, including reducing the travel distance from 60 kilometres (km), which previously took an hour, to just 17 km, cutting the travel time to 15 minutes. The new infrastructure also enhances the safety of residents who use the route,” MISB said in a statement.

Kampung Gemunchur Village Development and Security Committee (JPKK) chairman Roslan Idris  expressed gratitude for the convenience the project brings to local residents.

"This development bridges the gap between rural and urban areas, making it easier for us to access education, healthcare, and job opportunities," he said.

The new road also opens up opportunities in entrepreneurship, rural tourism, and logistics.

"The improved road access will create more job opportunities and stimulate economic activities between the villages, benefiting both the rural communities and the nearby urban areas," said Kampung Batu Balak JPKK chairman Mohd Johari Umar.

MISB director Mohd Tarmizi Mohd Zuki said the project, which was officially opened on Aug 31, faced some challenges, including the collapse of a temporary bridge three times due to natural disasters.

Despite these setbacks, the contractor remained dedicated to completing the project.

Mohd Tarmizi assured that the permanent bridge would be stronger and safer for the community.

This road also creates a strategic link for tourism, connecting Taman Negara Kuala Tahan to Cameron Highlands through Kuala Lipis, which will be vital for regional development in the future.

The project, which was completed ahead of schedule, was officially launched by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Rural and Regional Development (KKDW) Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

It was carried out in collaboration with KKDW and the Public Works Department (JKR) as the implementing agency.

-- BERNAMA