KUALA LUMPUR: Highway concession companies are required to carry out road maintenance works periodically, says Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Rahman Mohamad.
"The concession companies involved will be given full allocations," he said during his winding-up speech on Monday (March 20).
He was responding to a question from Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong, who said that maintenance costs are often overlooked when planning a new road.
"Many road shoulders are badly damaged and this is dangerous for the people.
"What are the new approaches by the ministry to ensure that maintenance costs are included and road repair are standard?" Dr Wee asked.
Abdul Rahman said heavy vehicles were among the causes of damaged roads.
"Sometimes, vehicles that weigh over 100 tonnes are driven on roads meant for 30-tonne vehicles.
"These are among the causes of road damage that are not expected by the technical team," he said.
He also said more damage to roads is expected during the ongoing monsoon season.
"There are also roads that have exceeded their lifespan. Some premixes used cannot last more than seven years.
"It requires maintenance by those appointed as concessionaires in charge of roads and road shoulders," said Abdul Rahman.
