Solar streetlights to be installed on East-West Highway

IPOH: A total of 385 solar-powered streetlights are planned for installation along the stretch of the East-West Highway in Gerik, where a fatal crash claimed the lives of 15 Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) students.

Perak Public Works Department director Zamri Mat Kasim said the units have already been tendered for installation in the area.

The tender has closed, and installation is expected to be awarded in July.

“The area has also received an allocation for road resurfacing and markings,” he said.

Zamri stated that street lighting and darkness are not the main causes of the accident.

The Road Forensics branch from JKR’s headquarters is at the scene to conduct a study and prepare a report.

Latest monitoring at the site shows that the road surface is in good condition with no potholes.

“Road furniture is also intact, including guard rails, chevrons, and signboards. According to the police’s preliminary report, the accident was caused by the unreasonable speed of the bus driver,” he said.