The lane parallel to Jalan Tiara 1 in Bandar Baru Klang is in a poor state. — FAIHAN GHANI/The Star
Dilapidated and dingy, a lane in the commercial area of Bandar Baru Klang is in urgent need of refurbishment.
The lane has been turned into a dumping ground and is unsafe for pedestrians.
Decorative street lamps have been ripped out from their concrete base, leaving the lane in darkness at night.
But even in the light of day, dangers abound.
Bollards have fallen and neglected palm trees are rotting while uneven interlocking bricks are a trip hazard.
Green benches, which once dotted the 220m lane sandwiched between blocks of shoplots, are no longer there.
Graffiti, building renovation debris and food waste can be seen along the lane.
Heaps of expired pita bread are found to have been dumped at an abandoned lot, attracting flies, rats and other pests.
The lane, which runs parallel to Jalan Tiara 1, begins at Jalan Tiara 2 and ends at Jalan Tiara 3 where there is a small pond with a garden.
Office workers and visitors who frequent the area want the lane to be cleaned up so that it can be safe to use again.
Alliance for Safe Community chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye said Bandar Baru Klang was a well-planned township and this lane, which acted as a spine running between 16 blocks of shoplots, must be made safe.
“Lanes that have been designed between buildings offer convenience or shortcuts.
“Walkable lanes help a township make better use of public space. As such, the authorities must not let lanes become neglected,” he added.
Lee stressed that Klang Municipal Council (MPK) must restore the run-down lane for better connectivity and use of public space.
“It will be a small investment to transform the lane but the end result will be a big difference. Office workers could use the space to have their lunch packed from home.
“With some planter boxes and benches, it would instil a sense of local pride.
“Good lighting for a safer environment could even see people spending time there until late evening,” he highlighted.
MPK president Noraini Roslan, said the council agreed that neglected lanes in established commercial areas did not give the township a good image.
She said the local council’s Planning Department would be asked to evaluate the idea of furbishing the lane and come up with a design that would contribute to people’s well-being.
“Bandar Baru Klang has great potential as it is a mix of commercial and residential units.
“MPK views the lanes as a council asset and will transform the lane in Bandar Baru Klang into a vibrant public space.
“On an immediate note, the council’s Environmental Services Department will be told to clean up the lane, including the drains,” Noraini added.
