KUALA LUMPUR is going greener in a big way, rolling out a “green connector” network that will link parks, rivers and urban forests across the city.
The project by Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) aims to improve air quality, boost biodiversity and give residents more connected green spaces in which to walk and cycle.
It will also create a natural habitat for urban wildlife.
Under Kuala Lumpur Local Plan 2040 (PTKL2040), 256km of connectors will be built in three phases – quick wins in the first two years, medium-term works over five years and long-term projects over the next decade.
“Funding will come from a mix of federal and local government allocations, international green grants, private sector corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts and endowment funds.
“Upgrades will include pedestrian and cycling paths with solar-powered lights, closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras, rest stops and public WiFi, as well as landscaping with shady trees and greenery suited to each zone,” DBKL said in a statement.
The network will be split into six zones – Upper Sanctuary, North East Loop, Vital Hub, South Suburb Loop, West Urban Loop and West Hill Loop.
The plan also covers upgrading 26 major roads, rebranding 17 public parks, beautifying 14 river reserves, improving 44 pocket parks (25 existing and 19 new) and upgrading six retention ponds.
The “Kuala Lumpur Greening Plan: Park Connector Network” project was launched along the Sungai Bunus stretch in Wangsa Maju by Kuala Lumpur mayor Datuk Seri Maimunah Mohd Sharif.
The event was also attended by representatives from Asean countries who were in Kuala Lumpur to participate in the Asean Governors and Mayors Forum (AGMF), the Asean Sustainable Urbanisation Forum (ASUF) and the Meeting of Governors and Mayors of Asean Capitals (MGMAC).
The ceremony was enlivened with a tree-planting session by representatives from all Asean capitals.
DBKL added that the initiative would set a new regional benchmark in urban green infrastructure.
