More sound checks needed for noisy LRT, say Section 5 residents

Residents in Section 5, Petaling Jaya, claim trains on the LRT Kelana Jaya Line are too loud.

RESIDENTS of Section 5 in Petaling Jaya want Prasarana Malaysia Bhd to reduce the noise level of trains that pass through their area.

Section 5 resident Ruban Chelliah said the noise pollution had become worse over the years.

“We complained to Prasarana and though they sent their staff to check the noise level and carry out tests, no residents were present.

“The readings would vary in different areas along the track. And not all trains are the same, some are new while others require maintenance,” he said.

Section 5 PJ Residents Association president Ben Thompson said Prasarana should meet with residents so that they can show them the areas most affected by the noise.

“One of the past committee members who was involved in the initial move to reduce noise levels after the LRT was first commissioned in 1998 said three measures were taken then.

“Certain areas near houses were made ‘a go-slow zone’, sound barriers were erected and water sprayers were installed onto the track.

“It would appear in recent years that maintenance is not being carried out the way it should be to reduce noise levels,” he said.

Residents have also started an online petition to reduce train speed and noise in residential areas in Section 5, 9 and 10 at www.gopetition.com/petitions/reduce-train-speed-and-noise-in-residential-areas.html

Residents have also highlighted the matter to Bukit Gasing assemblyman Rajiv Rishyakaran.

When contacted, Rajiv said when they receive such complaints, the sound levels would be measured.

“If the sound level exceeds the permissible level set by the Environ­ment Department, (DoE) Prasarana must take action.

“They will have to do something to the tracks or trains to reduce noise or build a sound barrier.”

When contacted, Prasarana Group communications head Rafizah Amran said they had conducted three noise level tests between October 2018 and April 2019; twice at Ruban’s residence, and once at a premises that is nearest to the LRT track.

“The results were between 66.2dBA and 71.3dBA, below the permissible limit set by DoE, which is 75.0dBA.

“In addition to meeting him (Ruban) personally, we have also taken the initiative to share these findings with the assemblyman responsible for the area,” she said.