A ROAD in Damansara Perdana, Petaling Jaya in Selangor, is frequently flooded due to a faulty underground drainage system.
During a visit by StarMetro, the road was covered in sediment and a strong stench emanated from the stagnant water, which was swarming with flies.
The affected stretch is on low ground, facing two popular eateries along Jalan PJU8/5c.
The owner of a restaurant, Sandy Chan said the problem had persisted for several years but worsened significantly in June.
“The stagnant water and its odour are terrible. We have had customers complain, and it is certainly unhygienic.”
Chan, who opened the eatery in 2001 and manages 13 stalls, lodged a complaint with Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ) in June.
Although the road and drainage fall under MBPJ’s jurisdiction, Chan hired and paid contractors RM3,000 to clean the area.
She stressed the importance of maintaining a clean and hygienic environment.
“Because we run a food business, we need a clean environment.
“During the cleanup, we discovered broken drain slabs.
“The workers removed the slabs along with a large amount of sediment from the drain,” she said.
Chan said MBPJ subsequently issued her a summons and ordered her eatery to close for three days in July.
“We were accused of clogging the drain that overflowed.
“But we wouldn’t do that.
“We want clean drains too, because it is crucial for our business,” she stressed.
Despite the cleanup paid for by Chan, the road continued to be flooded.
“Our premises are on lower ground, so water stagnates here.
“Since the drainage system is broken, there is nowhere for the water to flow,” she noted.
Following inspections by MBPJ, Chan was informed by its Health Department at the end of August that repair work on the drainage system would be carried out soon.
“MBPJ has taken note of the situation, but so far, only cleanups are carried out every few days.
“I have lodged multiple complaints, so I hope the city council will repair the drain soon as it is affecting our business.
“We see MBPJ workers cleaning the area, but after a downpour, the whole place is flooded again, with murky water everywhere,” said Chan.
Her customer G. Guan, who often dines at the eatery, agreed that the drainage issue was serious.
“The water stagnates again just days after a cleanup.
“MBPJ needs to handle this area better.
“There are many abandoned cars and this flooding issue is persistent.
“This problem has been ongoing for years and it is now at its worst. People should be able to dine in a clean environment,” he said.
Area councillor Suriase Gengiah confirmed that MBPJ was aware of the issue and that repair work would begin once a contractor was appointed.
“MBPJ has conducted its inspection and investigated the problem. Repair work will begin very soon,” he added.
However, Suriase was unable to indicate when the repairs were expected to begin.
