The bridge Marang never asked for

Marang, the parliamentary constituency of PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang, is currently experiencing the construction of a new bridge across Sungai Marang, along Federal Route 3. This project, amidst extensive road widening and elevated approaches, has been underway for nearly four years and shows no signs of completion soon. The residents of Marang, however, are questioning the necessity and design of this infrastructure project.

The elevated roads leading to the high bridge have transformed Marang, once a peaceful coastal town, into an extended worksite. Roads have narrowed, access routes been closed, and traffic has become congested, frustrating local residents and business owners. The construction has also led to dust pollution and the disappearance of roadside stalls that once offered Terengganu delicacies.

The new bridge, significantly higher than the existing one, requires long elevated approaches on both sides of the river, necessitating the acquisition of numerous private and commercial properties. This has dramatically altered the landscape of Marang. While some residents understand the inconvenience caused by such projects, many are questioning the design of the bridge itself. Zaidi, a local boat operator, asked, "Why build such a high bridge?" as there are no large ships using the shallow river.

Some residents suggested that a lower bridge or a bypass further upstream, where many villages still lack access across the river, would have been a more cost-effective and beneficial solution. They argue that the current bridge is still in good condition and serves the town well, questioning why it needs to be replaced. The residents seem to welcome development and improved infrastructure but are frustrated with the lack of understanding and planning behind this particular project.