Weaknesses in building Rawang bypass

KUALA LUMPUR: An audit conducted on the Works Ministry and Public Works Department (PWD) has unearthed weaknesses in the construction of the Rawang bypass infrastructure project in Bandar Rawang.

The weaknesses identified in the Auditor General’s Report 2016 Series 1 include the delay that caused the contractor to claim losses and expenses amounting to RM7.88 million.

“The project took a long time to complete with six extensions of 2,132 days given due to third parties’ ‘work procedures and processes that were beyond PWD’s control’.

“Design changes in the overlapping routes between elevated structures in the project, the Assam Jawa Taman Rimba Highway (LATAR) also resulted in additional costs of RM34.2 million.”

The report stated the delay in settling the compensation for land acquisition with valid justification, resulting in penalty payment of RM5.52 million.

“The 12.2 per cent progress claims by the contractor amounting to RM64.6 million were paid late between 15 and 118 days.”

The construction of the bypass was approved under the 9th Malaysia Plan to solve traffic congestion in Bandar Rawang and to improve the existing road network to Kuala Lumpur.

The project involved the upgrading of 10.72km of roads and the construction of a four-lane dual carriageway spanning 12.58km.

The audit found weaknesses in the construction of a flyover linking Jalan Nangka and Jalan Perda Timur through Jalan Padang Lalang/Landasan Keretapi/Jalan Permatang Rawa in Bukit Mertajam, Penang.

The flaws include change of scope in the quantity of ramps to be built, resulting in a delay in the commencement of the project, and increase in project costs.

“The project was delayed for 641 days, causing claims for losses and expenses by the contractor estimated at RM5.31 million.

“The construction methods for road barrier also did not comply with the standards.”

The project was approved under the 10th Malaysia Plan to solve traffic congestion in Bandar Perda.