Johor's First Wildlife Crossing to Protect Endangered Species Along Federal Route FT50

The Malaysian state of Johor is set to undertake its first wildlife crossing project along the Federal Route FT50, aiming to safeguard both animals and road users. The RM66 million project involves building an overpass bridge and relocating infrastructure along a 1.275-kilometre stretch of the road, which connects Kahang in Kluang to Mersing. This move comes after concerns about road accidents involving wildlife, including rare species such as Malayan tigers, elephants, Malayan tapirs, and leopards, which have been spotted crossing the area.

Key Takeaways:

• The RM66 million wildlife crossing project will be built along Federal Route FT50, connecting Kahang in Kluang to Mersing, to protect endangered species and ensure road safety.
• The 1.275-kilometre road upgrading project includes the construction of an eight-metre-high, 200-metre-long overpass bridge to facilitate safe animal crossing.
• The project involves relocating infrastructure and tree-clearing works along the roadside, which have already begun.
• Authorities will also plant specific vegetation beneath the overpass to attract and guide wildlife to cross via the dedicated route.
• The overpass bridge is expected to be completed by February 2028, with the project led by State Health and Environment Committee chairman Ling Tiang Soon.
• The Central Forest Spine (CFS), an important habitat for wildlife, spans 31,000 hectares and is home to several endangered species.

Statistics:

• RM66 million total project cost
• 1.275 kilometres of road upgrading
• 200 metres long and 8 metres high overpass bridge
• 31,000 hectares of forest area in the Central Forest Spine (CFS)
• 8-metre-high overpass bridge design

Sources:

[Johor State Government (no date).]

[Facebook post: Ling Tiang Soon (no date)]