Urgent Need for Road: Plea from Nanga Pila Residents - Councillor's Viewpoint
In the remote district of Kapit, Malaysia, the rural community of Nanga Pila finds itself cut off from the outside world, facing significant hardships due to the absence of a road and the suspension of express boat services. The construction of a road from Wong Pelagus to Nanga Pila has been planned, but delays have left the community in a state of isolation.
The cost of transportation for the residents of Nanga Pila has increased substantially. Whereas express boat rides previously cost a mere fraction of current prices, residents are now forced to rely on longboats and four-wheel-drive vehicles. The cost of a boat ride from Nanga Merit to Nanga Pila ranges from RM50 to RM100 per person, while a ride from Kapit to the log pond at 'Batu Arang' coal mine now costs RM10 per person. A four-wheel-drive ride from Nanga Tulit to Nanga Merit is RM25 per person.
Councillor Setepan Jaweng of Rumah Jaweng in Nanga Pila described their situation as being forgotten. Many of the people of Nanga Pila live below the poverty line, earning only a few hundred ringgit a month. The increased costs of transportation have added to their financial struggles, causing further hardship.
The impoundment of the Bakun dam since October 13, 2021, has caused a drastic drop in the water level in the Rajang River. This has led to the suspension of express boat services between Kapit and Belaga, further exacerbating the transportation issues faced by Nanga Pila.
The construction of a road from Wong Pelagus to Nanga Pila is intended to be located between Kapit and Belaga. Councillor Setepan Jaweng hopes the government will prioritize this construction, as it would provide much-needed access to essential services and markets.
The absence of a road and the suspension of express boat services are continuing to isolate the people of Nanga Pila from the outside world. This isolation has caused significant suffering, as the community is deprived of access to healthcare, education, and economic opportunities.
Infrastructure projects like the Bakun Dam have substantial effects on the surrounding environment and local communities. The construction of roads needs to account for changes in water levels and land stability post-dam impoundment. This requires careful planning and additional resources to ensure the road's durability and safety.
Engaging with local communities is crucial to understand their needs and concerns. This can help in designing infrastructure that supports their livelihoods and improves overall quality of life. While challenges exist, infrastructure projects can also create economic opportunities. Local employment and procurement can be significant benefits, especially if managed thoughtfully.
Councillor Setepan Jaweng reiterated his call for the authorities to expedite the construction of the road from Wong Pelagus to Nanga Pila. The future of Nanga Pila's residents depends on it.
The increased costs of transportation, predominantly in the absence of express boat services, have further strained the financial resources of Nanga Pila's residents, many of whom are already living below the poverty line. The construction of a road from Wong Pelagus to Nanga Pila, positioned between Kapit and Belaga, could potentially alleviate this financial burden by providing a more affordable mode of transportation and access to essential services, including finance and healthcare industries.
