LIPIS: Part of the Kuala Lumpur-Karak Expressway (KLK) will be widened with additional lanes being added to accommodate the growing traffic volume this year.
Another step being taken to tackle the increasing number of vehicles on the KLK was the construction of a new tunnel.
Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Rahman Mohamad said Anih Bhd, the concessionaire for KLK, was finalising the design for the RM2.1 billion project before physical works were expected to begin in the third quarter of this year.
"The Works Ministry has approved the proposal to widen KLK which will be carried out by Anih Bhd and the project is expected to be completed in 2026. The 45.3km stretch between the Gombak toll plaza and the Mempaga intersection (Central Spine Road) in Bentong will be widened.
"Under Section One, the stretch between the Gombak toll plaza and Bukit Tinggi will be widened from the existing three lanes to four lanes on both sides while the two lanes between Bukit Tinggi and the Bentong toll plaza will be expanded to three lanes under Section Two.
"The job scope will include the construction of a new two lane tunnel at Genting Sempah which will be built next to the east-bound tunnel (from Pahang). New street lights will also be installed along the highway," he told reporters during the Lipis parliamentary constituency Aidilfitri open house at the Arena Silver Jubilee hall.
Meanwhile, Rahman, who is the Lipis member of parliament, said once widened, KLK was expected to be more comfortable, fast and efficient for road users.
The work, he said, would address the issue of congestion, especially during festive seasons, public holidays and weekends.
"The ministry is aware of the complaints by the people who have to spend long hours on the road to return to their respective hometowns during the festive season. Severe traffic congestion often occurs during peak hours leading up to festivals, public holidays and weekends.
"In order to provide convenience to the public, especially motorists who frequently use the stretch, the government sees the road widening works as an effort to provide comfort to the people in the future," he said.