Puah (centre, in white) discussing with representatives from MBJB, TNB, Energy Commission and the developer during their visit to check on the electrical pylon at Bandar Tiram, near Johor Baru. — THOMAS YONG/The Star
Tebrau MP, city council and representatives from several organisations visit structure, developer instructed to conduct rectification works
RESIDENTS of Seri Baiduri Apartments in Bandar Tiram, near Johor Baru, are concerned over the location of an electrical pylon close to a slope next to their neighbourhood.
Seri Baiduri Bandar Tiram management committee chairman Mohd Kamarulzaman Azizan said the pylon’s location posed a potential safety risk, especially during the rainy season.
He said the matter involved the safety of over 250 residents in about 190 housing units across three apartment blocks.
“The pylon is located near a slope, which raises concerns.
“Some residents have taken photos showing just how close the pylon is to the slope.
“When those images started going viral, it caused panic,” said Mohd Kamarulzaman, adding that residents are worried that heavy rain could lead to soil erosion, leading to the collapse of the electrical pylon.
Following their complaints, Tebrau MP Jimmy Puah Wee Tse visited the site with representatives from Johor Baru City Council (MBJB), Tenaga Nasional Bhd (TNB), Energy Commission and the developer.
Puah said the inspection revealed that the distance between the pylon and the edge of the slope was about 25m, which exceeded the minimum required distance of 20m.
“The angle of the viral photos made it appear as though the structure was built too close to the slope, which was the main source of residents’ concerns.
“To address their fears, MBJB has instructed the developer to take immediate action, including installing erosion-control canvas on the slope and placing shear structures along a 15m stretch.”
Puah also had requested the developer to build a concrete retaining structure this month, to be completed within six weeks.
Mohd Kamarulzaman thanked the authorities and Puah for their swift response, which had helped ease residents’ worries about their safety.
