SRI AMAN – Monitoring and enforcement efforts at the Batang Lupar 2 Bridge are expected to be strengthened, with the public urged to observe safety regulations, maintain cleanliness and refrain from damaging public facilities.
Sri Aman Division Resident Mahra Salleh said cooperation from bridge users and visitors was essential to keeping the infrastructure safe, clean and in good condition for the benefit of the community.
She reminded members of the public to act responsibly when using the bridge and avoid behaviour that could endanger themselves or other road users.
Among the activities discouraged are stopping or parking vehicles indiscriminately, gathering along the road shoulder and taking photographs in ways that obstruct traffic or disrupt the movement of vehicles.
Mahra also urged the public not to litter, vandalise structures or damage facilities provided along the bridge.
She said collective responsibility was necessary to protect the infrastructure and ensure it remained a safe and accessible public facility.
“Users and the public are asked to always comply with the safety regulations and instructions set, including not stopping or parking vehicles at will, gathering on the shoulder of the road or taking pictures that disrupt the smooth flow of traffic.
“In addition, do not throw garbage everywhere, commit vandalism or damage public facilities. We need to work together to maintain the cleanliness and safety of this bridge for the benefit of all parties,” she said when contacted.
To address concerns involving public safety, vandalism and littering, the Sri Aman Division Resident’s Office will coordinate discussions with the Sri Aman District Police Headquarters (IPD), Betong IPD, Public Works Department (JKR) and the relevant local authority.
The discussions are expected to identify appropriate measures to manage activities around the bridge and improve compliance with existing safety requirements.
Monitoring is already supported by eight closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras installed at the Batang Lupar 2 Bridge. These surveillance facilities are intended to assist in observing activities and identifying incidents that could affect public safety and the condition of the infrastructure.
In addition to CCTV monitoring, patrols by the Sri Aman District Police are expected to be conducted periodically as part of efforts to reinforce compliance and discourage irresponsible behaviour.
The planned coordination between the relevant agencies reflects the need for a combined approach to managing safety and public order at the bridge, particularly given its use by motorists and members of the public.
Bridges are essential transport infrastructure, and maintaining their condition requires attention not only from the agencies responsible for their upkeep but also from those who use them.
Improper parking, roadside gatherings and activities that obstruct traffic can create hazards for motorists, while littering and vandalism can affect the cleanliness, appearance and usability of public facilities.
Mahra expressed hope that residents, visitors and other bridge users would appreciate the facilities provided and play their part in protecting the infrastructure.
She emphasised that maintaining the Batang Lupar 2 Bridge should not be viewed as the responsibility of government agencies alone, but as a shared obligation involving everyone who uses or visits the area.
Continued public cooperation, alongside monitoring and enforcement by the relevant authorities, will be important in ensuring that the bridge remains safe, clean and properly maintained for the wider community. — Sarawak Daily
