The proposed upgrade of the Old Bau Road into a dual carriageway is expected to happen soon with the first phase of the wider Batu Kitang – Bau road project estimated to cost approximately RM500 million.
The major infrastructure project is expected to be implemented in three phases, with the Sarawak Government undertaking the development to improve traffic flow, increase road capacity and provide motorists with better access between Kuching, Batu Kitang and Bau.
Batu Kitang assemblyman Datuk Lo Khere Chiang said the first phase, which involves the stretch from Bau to Keranji, is currently at the final stage of its design process.
According to Lo, construction is expected to begin by 2028, although the precise commencement date has yet to be confirmed. The project has also not yet entered the tender process.
Three phases planned for Batu Kitang–Bau dual carriageway
The proposed dual-carriageway development will be carried out in three phases to manage the substantial construction costs and minimise disruption to motorists.
The first phase will cover the road connecting Bau to Keranji, while the second phase will connect Keranji to the Stephen Yong Road junction.
The third phase will cover the stretch between the 7th Mile area and Bumbok.
Each phase is estimated to cost approximately RM500 million, bringing the indicative total development cost to around RM1.5 billion.
Lo explained that the project would need to be implemented progressively due to its significant financial requirements.
He also disclosed that consultants had been appointed for the third phase, with design preparations already underway.
Bau-to-Keranji section to provide alternative access
One of the main reasons for prioritising the Bau-to-Keranji and Keranji-to-Stephen Yong sections is to provide motorists with an alternative route when construction begins along the 7th Mile-to-Batu Kitang stretch.
The Batu Kitang area is an important transport corridor connecting residential communities and businesses to Kuching.
Construction activities along the existing road could affect utilities and essential services, potentially requiring temporary road closures.
Completing the alternative connection towards Bau beforehand would help reduce traffic disruption and maintain accessibility for motorists travelling between the two areas.
The phased approach is therefore intended to ensure that road users continue to have alternative access while major construction activities are taking place.
Article sources:
- DayakDaily: Old Bau Road upgrade to dual carriageway expected to begin in 2027.
- Utusan Sarawak: Batu Kitang–Bau dual-carriageway design nearing completion, construction expected in 2028.