WHEN Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) recently demolished illegal extensions that encroached into public spaces, some premises were not affected.
However, these business owners are not off the hook.
They were issued notices to remove the illegal structures voluntarily by signing a pledge (surat aku janji).
Since StarMetro carried the article on the demolition operation in Plaza Damansara, many complaints have been received.
Some questioned why DBKL did not demolish some outlets and accused the authority of double standards.
However, DBKL clarified that enforcement operations would continue.
“Those who were spared that day have pledged to remove their illegal extensions voluntarily, failing which action will be taken including demolition,” said a DBKL spokesperson.
DBKL has been cracking down on businesses that have illegally erected structures and extensions in violation of Street, Drainage and Building Act 1974, as well as those placing tables, chairs and potted plants on public walkways.
These encroachments have hindered waste management company Alam Flora from carrying out proper cleaning work.
The Kuala Lumpur Fire and Rescue Department also raised concerns of illegal extensions obstructing emergency response efforts.
Many restaurants in Bukit Damansara have placed their gas tanks in the back lanes, taking up valuable space, while some have illegally installed extensions outside their premises, eating into the public space.
All these obstructions are strictly prohibited according to Fire and Rescue Department regulations, its spokesperson said.
“We need to streamline enforcement and establish a proper code to ensure compliance.
Ravi says DBKL action was based on many complaints.“This will not only prevent violations but also ensure that fire engines have unobstructed access,” the spokesperson added.
Bukit Damansara House Owners Association deputy president Ravi Markandu said while he appreciated DBKL’s enforcement action in the area, he pointed out that many businesses had still not removed their illegal extensions.
“I was informed by DBKL’s Segambut office that the recent operation in Plaza Damansara was carried out following numerous complaints from Alam Flora, because its workers struggled to manoeuvre their dumpsters through lanes obstructed by illegal structures, as well as clean drains impeded by decorative items.
“These businesses were initially given notices to remove the obstacles voluntarily, and some failed to comply.”
Save Kuala Lumpur chairman Datuk M. Ali commended DBKL’s actions in penalising the businesses.
However, he said many were still violating the law and escaped enforcement, such as a seafood restaurant at Jalan Pantai Baru in Bangsar illegally built on government land.
StarMetro had previously reported that then Federal Territories Land and Mines Office (PPTGWP) director Muhammad Yasir Yahya confirmed the restaurant, located on a road divider, had extensive renovations costing about RM3mil.
He had said that the operator had applied for a permit and was asked to ensure there were no obstructions to pedestrians or vehicles.
In Jalan Tun Sambanthan, Brickfields, a restaurant constructed on a public walkway, featuring a permanent structure, also raised safety concerns.
The obstruction restricts emergency access, thus violating Fire and Rescue Department regulations.
“This is a blatant disregard for public safety and fire regulations,” said Brickfields Rukun Tetangga chairman SKK Naidu.
“Emergency access should never be compromised for private business gains.” — By BAVANI M
