JOHOR BARU: Work on the multi-million ringgit Sungai Segget rehabilitation and rejuvenation project is almost complete as it is now under the testing and commissioning stage.

Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA) chief executive Datuk Ismail Ibrahim said that while works on the surface had been completed, there was still some testing work being carried out before the project was handed over to the Johor Baru City Council (MBJB).

“So far, some RM240mil has been spent on the project including the rehabilitation and rejuvenation of the river along with the building of a 11-storey centralised sewerage treatment plant (CSTP),” he said in an interview.

The multi-million Sungai Segget Rejuvenation Project comprises an integrated water treatment plant and the development of a flood mitigation and sewerage system, followed by the river beautification project.

Dubbed as the Gem of Johor Baru City, the upgrading of Sungai Segget is part of the plan to transform the city centre into a vibrant place.

Ismail added that there were delays to the project as there were many obstacles that the team had to overcome, including some parts that were below sea level-which would naturally flood when it rained.

The team also had to deal with old utilities and even timber from an old saw mill nearby the river.

He said that pipes were placed under Sungai Segget to collect sewerage water from buildings along the river.

“This water is then pumped and treated at the CSTP before clean water is channelled back into Sungai Segget.

“I hope people will maintain the cleanliness of the area and not throw rubbish and litter the river,” he said, adding that stricter enforcement was being carried out to deter litterbugs from polluting the river.

When asked about criticism on the project, due to past incidences of flooding around the city, Ismail said IRDA would do its best to mitigate the issues.

On other matters, he added that, “So far, Iskandar Malaysia was growing steadily despite the uncertainties globally.”

He added that Iskandar Malaysia was growing much higher than the national average of 4.5% to 5% annually.

He added that they were still looking into improving connectivity within the region including the implementation of the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), Rapid Transit System (RTS), High Speed Rail and more flights at Senai International Airport.

On the RTS, he said that they had narrowed the options from 19 possible crossings into Johor Baru to two or three options.

“On whether it will be a tunnel or high bridge, the leaders from both Malaysia and Singapore will decide on it before making an announcement,” he added.