The run-down children’s playground and (below) broken roof of a public toilet at Taman Bandar DiRaja Klang. — Photos: IZZRAFIQ ALIAS/The Star
Located on a hillock in Jalan Istana, Taman Bandar DiRaja Klang gives visitors a view of Istana Alam Shah, the official palace of the Selangor Sultan.
The park, however, has fallen into a state of neglect over the years.
It is within walking distance to Klang’s Little India, a shopping enclave popular with tourists.
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Some tourists would head over to the park after taking in the heritage buildings in the city.
Sandwiched between Jalan Tengku Kelana and Jalan Istana, the 4.5ha public park, which cost RM3.5mil, was a popular play area for children with its fountains and playground.
Resident Huzaifa Ibrahim, 35, said the park was currently unfit for recreational activities because of its neglected state and acts of vandalism.
“It is not safe to use the park as the grounds are littered with dried leaves and has become a mosquito breeding ground.
“Vandals have broken the metal fittings in three public toilets, rendering the facilities unusable.
“It has also been stripped of its electrical wiring and graffiti is on the walls,” he said.
Huzaifa added that the playground equipment was broken and in bad shape, which posed a safety risk to young children.
“The water fountains are no longer working, including the one with a tall Keris monument where vandals have damaged the tiles and exposed the concrete underneath,” he said.
Qadir Omar, 38, added that the outdoor fitness equipment along the walking path had deteriorated and could not be used.
“Park benches, gazebos, a vandalised guard house, two open air plazas and walk path need refurbishment,” he added.
The park was a beautiful public space when it opened in June 2008 but the lack of maintenance and vandalism had caused it to fall into disrepair.
There had been repeated calls for the park to be refurbished but nothing has been done so far.
In the meantime, people shy away from the park in its current state.
Shahida Sharul, 36, said locals used to be proud of this park as it was kept in good condition.
“SMK Convent students used to frequent the park but it is no longer safe,” she added.
Klang Royal City Council (MBDK) Landscape and Recreational Department deputy director Azzura Zainal said the upcoming biophilic garden project would include rebuilding the three public toilets.
“MBDK will rebuild the guardhouse and conduct the necessary repairs including replacing the exercise stations, installing new playground equipment and restoring the fountains,” she added. — By EDWARD RAJENDRA
