Weeks after opening, Batang Lupar Bridge 1 already marred by litter

By Shikin Louis

KUCHING, June 4: Malaysia’s longest river bridge, Batang Lupar Bridge 1, which was recently opened to traffic, is already facing an unexpected issue — littering.

Facebook user Ef Suhaimi shared an image depicting rubbish scattered along sections of the newly-opened bridge, sparking public concern over the condition of the landmark structure.

“The Batang Lupar Bridge looks dirty already, with rubbish being thrown everywhere. Maybe they should have just built a rubbish disposal site instead. Really irresponsible. Please do not do this kind of thing,” he wrote.

Drawing a comparison with neighbouring Brunei Darussalam, he noted that even much longer sea-crossing bridges there remain clean despite heavier usage.

“I feel embarrassed when looking at Brunei. They have sea bridges over 20km long and you don’t see rubbish being thrown on the bridge. Here in Sarawak, it is only about 4km and it already looks like this,” he added.

In response, the Public Works Department (JKR) Sarawak issued a reminder urging the public to take collective responsibility for maintaining the cleanliness of the bridge.

“Batang Lupar Bridge 1 belongs to all of us. Let us work together to maintain the cleanliness and beauty of the bridge, which is a source of pride for the people of Sarawak. Keep it clean, protect Sarawak’s image,” the department said.

The 4.844km Batang Lupar Bridge 1 was only opened to traffic on May 21. The RM848.7 million structure is Malaysia’s longest river-crossing bridge and among Sarawak’s most significant infrastructure achievements.

The bridge replaces the Sebuyau–Triso ferry service, cutting travel time between the two points from about 30 minutes to just five minutes.

It forms part of the Sarawak government’s Coastal Road Network and Second Trunk Road development programme aimed at improving connectivity and accessibility along the coastal corridor. — DayakDaily

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