KL-Karak widening project to be completed one year ahead of schedule

The RM2.1 billion Kuala Lumpur-Karak Highway widening project is set to be finished one year earlier than planned, Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi announced. Originally slated for completion in 2030, the project is now projected to be completed by 2029, according to AFA Prime Bhd. The 45.3-kilometer stretch between Gombak and Bentong, along with a 999-meter third tunnel at Genting Sempah, have been fully funded by AFA Prime.

Nanta emphasized that the project is about more than just expanding the tunnel; it's about bridging the gap between east and west, potential and opportunity, and the needs of East Coast residents. The highway will be widened from three to four lanes between Gombak and Genting Sempah, while the stretch between Genting Sempah and Bentong will see an upgrade from two to three lanes.

Work on the project commenced in March, with the primary objective of enhancing traffic flow, road safety, and comfort for travelers along this crucial east-west corridor. The New Austrian Tunnelling Method (NATM) will be employed for the construction of the new 999-meter tunnel, which Nanta believes is more appropriate for the site's conditions.

With daily traffic on the KL-Karak corridor increasing from 41,000 vehicles in 1997 to over 135,000 vehicles today, the government is taking broader measures to improve road safety and reduce accidents nationwide. A recent Cabinet committee meeting chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi focused on addressing road congestion and safety concerns, highlighting the urgent need to address the high number of road fatalities in Malaysia, which averages 18 lives lost daily.

Regarding toll rates, Nanta stated that there will be no immediate increase following the project's completion, though a potential rise may occur in the next two to three years, as stipulated in the contract.