UNTRIMMED tree branches are posing a safety risk to food stall operators and their patrons along Jalan Metro Perdana Barat 13 at Kepong’s Sri Edaran Industrial Park in Kuala Lumpur.
Community activist Yee Poh Ping said the trees had not been adequately trimmed, leaving overgrown branches to dangle dangerously above the stalls.
One of the stall operators, who wanted to be known only as Low, said large tree branches falling onto the zinc roof of his stall had caused considerable damage.
A customer at the stall said a branch had once fallen and smashed his car’s windscreen.
Both individuals ended up paying for the damage out of their own pocket.
Low said fallen branches and leaves accumulated on the zinc roof and canopy tops of these stalls and remained uncollected.
“The accumulated weight of the debris will eventually overload the roof,” he added.
About 10 stalls line the road but some have been abandoned.
StarMetro observed several empty tents and tables left behind, while the area was also littered with rubbish, including a discarded sofa.
Low also pointed out that the area’s drains, which used to be cleaned regularly, had not been maintained for some time.
Yee urged Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) to address the issue.
He suggested that the food stalls be upgraded into a proper food court, complete with seating.
“It will improve the overall experience so patrons can safely enjoy their meals.
“These eateries shouldn’t be situated haphazardly by the roadside,” he added.
