Nanta: Marang New Bridge Project To Be Ready In January 2027

MARANG, July 14 (Bernama) -- 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.

“This project received two ‘extensions of time’ (EOT) reportedly due to land acquisition issues, but these have been resolved. We have been assured by the contractor and officials that there will be no more EOTs," he told reporters after inspecting the progress of the new bridge construction project here today.

He said the new bridge project, with a contract cost of RM338 million, involves a 2.5 kilometre (km)-long stretch along the FT003 route from Kuala Terengganu to Kuantan, including the construction of the 220 metres (m)-long Sungai Marang Bridge, and a 680 m long-flyover across Marang town, as well as upgrading the existing road over a distance of 1.5 km.

The bridge, which has four two-way lanes, is expected to resolve the congestion problem on the existing bridge, especially during festive seasons.

"This new bridge project is very important to replace the existing bridge built in the 1950s. The old bridge is not only narrow but also low, making it difficult for fishing boats to pass through," he said.

He also said that when completed, the bridge will provide significant benefits to the people, especially  local residents, who will be able to enjoy a larger and more efficient road, as well as alleviate traffic congestion during peak times and festivals, in addition to saving time.

Additionally, it is said that the construction of the bridge is also designed to allow fishing boats from Zone C to navigate further upstream and no longer be obstructed by the height of the existing bridge.

"With the construction of this new bridge, it will certainly stimulate local economic growth, especially in the fisheries and maritime logistics sectors for the Marang district," he added.

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

-- BERNAMA