MONITORING of automotive workshops in the Ampang Jaya municipality in Selangor is being stepped up to ensure they operate in approved areas and comply with licensing requirements.
Ampang Jaya Municipal Council (MPAJ) deputy president Hasrolnizam Shaari said while most workshops were already located within designated commercial zones, action would be taken against those operating outside permitted premises.
This follows a statewide directive that automotive workshops in residential areas relocate to light industrial zones.
The authorities are directing operators in mixed residential areas to relocate, in order to curb traffic congestion as well as pollution caused by noise and oil discharged into drains.
Hasrolnizam said there were currently 355 automotive workshops, including car accessory centres within MPAJ’s jurisdiction.
“We introduced a requirement for all such businesses to obtain licences before Jan 1 this year.
“Those who fail to comply will face fines.
“If they continue operating without approval, we will proceed with seizure,” he said after chairing the MPAJ full board meeting at its headquarters in Pandan Indah.
He said MPAJ introduced a policy last August requiring these businesses to rent designated parking bays.
The rule requires vehicle workshops, carwash centres and motor accessory shops to rent between two and three designated bays in front of their premises.
“We have seen improvements in traffic flow and parking management in these areas since this was introduced,” said Hasrolnizam.
On Feb 21, StarMetro quoted Selangor local government and tourism committee chairman Datuk Ng Suee Lim saying that automotive workshops must vacate residential premises and relocate to designated light industrial zones.
The move, he said, was aimed at easing congestion, curbing pollution and stopping operators from occupying public parking bays.
This directive also sought to centralise workshop services besides enhancing the safety of residential neighbourhoods.
