Pedestrians crossing Jalan Sultan Yussof in touristy Ipoh.
VEHICLES are failing to give pedestrians right-of-way on a zebra crossing in Ipoh, Perak, stakeholders say.
The crossing on Jalan Sultan Yussof is often used by those walking between Birch Memorial Clock Tower and Panglima Lane.
Tourist guide K. Rajasegaran said the situation was quite bad during weekends.
“Cars don’t slow down even when people signal their intent to cross the road.
“The drivers would either ignore them, honk or worse, speed up,” he said when met.
“Some vehicles, including lorries, also stop by the roadside near the crossing, obstructing other drivers’ view.”
Rajasegaran suggested having regular traffic police patrols in the area, especially during weekends and public holidays.
Sofiya Zahir, a student who was in the area with her mother, said cars usually would not stop or slow down at the crossing.
Rajasegaran says the situation is worse on weekends.
“The local council should consider building a speed hump some 50m before the zebra crossing to slow down traffic,” she said.
Cafe manager Mohamad Ikmal Hafiz said there had been many near-misses at the site.
“Drivers tend to speed through the crossing and are forced to use the emergency brake when pedestrians appear,” he added.
Ipoh City Watch (ICW) president Dr Richard Ng said speed-reduction measures and consistent enforcement were needed.
“Pedestrians on zebra crossings have right-of-way.
“I hope Ipoh City Council (MBI) and traffic police will take note before a mishap occurs.
“Among the measures MBI can consider is installing pedestrian-activated signals, closed-circuit TV cameras and appropriate signage,” he added.
An MBI spokesperson said they would ensure all road markings were visible at Jalan Sultan Yussof so that motorists complied with the rules.
“We have painted speed reduction markings on the road and installed amber lights,” said the spokesperson.
