GUA MUSANG, July 17 — The government will expedite the construction of the Lingkaran Tengah Utama (LTU) Expressway, formerly known as Central Spine Road, to enable smoother Kuala Lumpur-Kelantan travel.
Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan said construction is on schedule and progressing well.
He said the project comprises five packages, with the section from Gua Musang to Kampung Relong, Pahang, currently 54.8 per cent complete.
Gua Musang to Kampung Relong, Pahang, is 53.71 per cent complete, and the section from Sungai Lakit Bridge to Gua Musang is 22.08 per cent complete.
The section from the Sungai Lakit Bridge to Gua Musang is 34.06 per cent complete, and the section from Sungai Lakit Bridge to Gua Musang is 12.69 per cent complete.
“The LTU is a game changer, being a toll-free highway in the Peninsula, following the Pan Borneo Highway in Sabah and Sarawak,” he told a press conference after a working visit to the Public Works Department here today.
Meanwhile, commenting on the housing situation of 88 villagers affected by the LTU, Ahmad said his ministry will review the matter and expedite all processes, including providing compensation.
“Efforts for ex gratia payments are underway, and I hope this can be resolved as soon as possible to avoid delays in construction.
“Delays will increase costs for the government and contractors involved in the project, ultimately disadvantaging all parties,” he said.
— Bernama
