Long Linei folk appeal for road improvements
MIRI: Residents of five longhouses in Long Linei, Long Linei Hulu, and Long Linei Hilir, TutohApoh, Baram have appealed to the authorities concerned to improve the dirt road in their area.
The Long Linei road, which is about four hours’ drive from here, is almost inaccessible during the monsoon season as the conditions become so muddy the road looks like a spot where buffalos have wallowed.
It is also very slippery and riddled with potholes, which cause difficulties for road users.
The poor road condition not only affects longhouse folk, but also those going to SK Long Linei and St Joseph’s Church.
Long Linei resident Evelyn Julian said only four-wheel drive vehicles (4WDs) can travel along the road when the weather is bad.
She pointed out that even 4WD vehicles could easily become stuck if the drivers are inexperienced.
Dayak Think Tank Group Miri chairman Elias Lipi Mat said work on the road should be conducted during the dry spell.
“The current hot weather is good enough for the repair work to be carried out so that residents can use the road when the weather is bad and also to prevent them from being cut- off from the outside world, especially during emergency situations such as illnesses and mothers going into labour.
“We hope the road is repaired and maintained and that the government will consider solving the problems faced by the population and the road users as soon as possible,” he added yesterday.