The Works Ministry has introduced a new nationwide standard operating procedure (SOP) that mandates potholes on federal roads be repaired within 24 hours
Potholes to be fixed within 24 hours
According to NST, Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan announced the SOP in Parliament today, adding that this commitment reflects the government’s dedication to maintaining safer road conditions for the public.
He was responding to a question from Batang Lupar MP Mohamad Shafizan Kepli, who had asked about the ministry’s efforts to address road safety issues, particularly following the recent East-West Highway tragedy where 15 students were killed in a car crash.
Aside from potholes, Maslan said other road-related complaints, including faded road markings, damaged signs, malfunctioning traffic lights, poor lighting, road obstructions, landslides, and other infrastructure issues will be handled within a maximum of 15 days.
“While potholes must be fixed within 24 hours, we also urge other agencies, including the Housing and Local Government Ministry, the Rural and Regional Development Ministry, and the Agriculture Ministry to adopt the same standard,” he added.
In light of recent fatal accidents, the ministry is also taking steps to install more solar-powered street lights along accident-prone stretches of road.
However, Ahmad Maslan stressed that road users must also do their part, adding that “the real key to preventing road accidents is obeying speed limits.”
