Delay hits LRT extension project

From its original completion scheduled by end-2014, the Ampang and Kelana Jaya light rail transit (LRT) line extension project will be delayed by at least 18 months to complete only by middle of 2016.

As such, there are fears that the supposed budget of RM7 billion will be blown to surpass RM8 billion, reported Business Times.

The project's lag was likely due to a delayed contract award process by the Minister of Finance Inc. to some companies.

For instance, the RM960million contract for George Kent (M) Bhd was delayed by 12 months due to apprehensions on the company's resources and capability. The company was reportedly deemed unsuitable for the engineering, procurement, construction, testing and commissioning of system works for the Ampang LRT line. 

“The LRT line extension project will only be operational by late 2016 because of the delay in the awarding of contracts and some works carried out by certain contractors,” said a source.

Notably, French-based Thales Group and CMC Engineering with partner Colas, are also slow in the works.