Kelkon Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of the  Kelantan State Economic Development Corporation, will build the 30.5 kilometre stretch of the Machang to Kuala Krai highway which is part of the People’s Expressway, beginning next month.

Menteri Besar Kelantan Ahmad Yakob said Kelkon Sdn Bhd has entered into a joint venture with Afiqah Wira Sdn Bhd to build the highway which would involve the construction of a four-lane dual carriageway, eight elevated interchanges, a rest and recreation area and eight overhead bridges.    

“The total cost of building the expressway is about RM850 million and construction is expected to be completed within three-and-a-half years that is by 2017,” he told reporters after a gathering in Kota Baru today.

Ahmad said Kelkon Sdn Bhd was selected to construct the highway after an open tender process and work would begin on government land in Bukit Bakar, Machang.

When completed, the expressway would bring a lot of advantages to the people including overcoming traffic congestion.

- Bernama