Segget River To Reopen After June 2014 - Johor MB

Source from ~ http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v7/ge/newsgeneral.php?id=961534

JOHOR BARU, July 6 (Bernama) -- The Segget River, which is currently undergoing a process of restoration and rejuvenation, is expected to reopen after June next year, Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said.

He said the first phase of the river restoration project had begun on June 24, involving the construction of a centralized sewage treatment plant.

"The entire restoration project is scheduled for completion by end of 2015," he told reporters after launching the Johor Baharu Transformation Open Day themed 'Johor Baharu Towards New Transformation Era' at Galleria@Kotaraya, Plaza Kotaraya here Saturday.

The three-day event, which begins today, is aimed at providing latest information related to Johor Baharu transformation plan to the public.

Mohamed Khaled said the Segget River restoration project was not just to improve water quality and reduce pollution in the Tebrau Straits, but also to turn the riverbanks into recreational areas for public and tourists.

The river was closed in 2005 as measure to curb the stench from polluting the air in the surrounding area.

The menteri besar said it was part of the catalyst for Johor Baharu transformation programme.

Other projects include the conservation of historic sites, buildings and icons; upgrade of information technology and communication networks; increase the level of public safety and well-being; preparation of a more conducive public infrastructure and increase of environmental quality.

Commenting on heritage buildings, Mohamed Khaled said a total of 466 iconic and historic buildings in Johor Baharu had been examined and 263 of them were identified to be preserved and maintained.

"I look forward to this transformation as I'm confident that we will be able to preserve Johor Baharu as a regional financial and economic hub, which will be able to lure many people, including tourists, to come here," he added.

-- BERNAMA

Source from ~ http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v7/ge/newsgeneral.php?id=961534