Blackspot off Federal Highway triggers safety calls


Crashes are frequent at this road bend due to faded road markings and inadequate directional guidance for motorists heading towards Subang Jaya and USJ. — RAJA FAISAL HISHAN/The Star

Recurring traffic mishaps at a sharp fork road branching off the Kuala Lumpur-bound Federal Highway have prompted residents to call on Subang Jaya City Council (MBSJ) for immediate infrastructure upgrades.

Social activist CP Goh, 39, said residents had reported numerous accidents at the turn-off leading to the Subang Jaya-USJ fork road.

“Faded road lines as well as lane demarcations with the painted words ‘Subang Jaya’ and ‘USJ’ are no longer visible.

“Many complainants have requested that the words be repainted on the road before the entry point from Federal Highway,” he said.

Goh added that the short, curved section leading to the fork often confused motorists, resulting in sudden lane changes.

“The situation is worsened by faded road markings, the absence of reflective lane markers and inadequate lighting at night.

“Many residents in the area have suggested that MBSJ use water-filled barriers as they are a better option to reduce the severity of impacts.

“Currently, rigid concrete barriers are placed to stop a vehicle,” he said.

Goh said the installation of clear visual lane markers along the centre and edges of the roadway would greatly enhance lane discipline and help drivers navigate safely towards the exit.

“As an immediate and cost- effective measure, large directional signs indicating ‘Subang Jaya’ and ‘USJ’ should be installed approximately 50m before the Federal Highway exit, accompanied by additional signage at the fork itself.

“Such visual reinforcement would significantly improve driver awareness and navigation,” he added.

Town planner Hamidah Harun, 33, said the design of the exit posed significant risks to drivers.

According to her, motorists approaching the sharp bend from the highway often braked abruptly or reduced speed unexpectedly before entering the Y-junction, increasing the likelihood of accidents.

“This occurs throughout the day, particularly during peak traffic periods and heavy rain, making the area especially challenging.

“Cat’s eyes or reflective road studs are critical for night driving here.

“They reflect car headlights to illuminate the road ahead, outline lane boundaries and highlight road bends during intense rain, helping motorists stay safely on track when streetlights are out of order,” said Hamidah.

Carpenter Amir Tukiman, 53, said another serious concern was the impact on road safety during emergencies.

“We see ambulances, fire engines and police vehicles often travel at high speeds and require orderly traffic conditions to respond efficiently, so this road needs improvement.”

In response to the mounting public concern, Subang Jaya deputy mayor Mohd Zulkurnain Che Ali said MBSJ would repaint the faded road lines, replace damaged road barriers and look into better options to ensure a safer drive and ride for motorists.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Next In Metro News

Savoury, sweet parcels of tradition
Taking inspiration from Merdeka 118 for batik art
Faint road markings fuel motorist woes
Beneficial projects ahead for KL’s 1Razak Mansion residents
Record seizures as MBDK targets illegal businesses by foreigners
Towing of illegally parked cars intensifies in Cyberjaya
Central Seberang Perai poised as key growth area
MUET ‘musical chairs’ lead some to cross state lines
City housing transformed
S’gor launches action plan for disabled folk

Others Also Read