ROAD safety measures will be increased near the popular Taman Muda morning market in Ampang Jaya, Selangor, following a series of accidents in the area, including a recent fatality.
Proposed upgrades for the busy stretch include road humps, speed breakers and soft-pole dividers along Jalan Bunga Mawar, particularly in front of the market entrance where pedestrian activity is high.
Teratai assemblyman Yew Jia Haur said discussions were held with the Public Works Department (JKR) to introduce the much-needed safety enhancements.
“There have been several accidents involving both vehicles and pedestrians here, including a fatal incident in February.
“This is a high-traffic stretch due to the morning market; it also serves as a key access and exit route for several surrounding neighbourhoods.
“We hope these improvements will help reduce accidents and make the area safer for everyone,” said Yew during a site visit with JKR officers this week.
Also present was Ampang Jaya Municipal Council Zone 22 councillor Lee Wen Bin.
Taman Muda Residents Association chairman NK Chong said the road posed particular risks to pedestrians, many of whom cross Jalan Bunga Mawar to access the market.
“A large number of market-goers are elderly and often carry groceries or other items.
“Despite the presence of a pedestrian crossing, many motorists fail to stop and give way.
“As a result, people often have to rush across the road, and that is when accidents occur,” he said.
Chong noted that there were currently no traffic-calming measures between the Seraya roundabout and the market, a stretch of about 500m.
“Because the road slopes slightly downhill and there are no humps, motorists tend to drive faster than they should,” he said.
He added that closed-circuit TV (CCTV) cameras and additional warning signage could further improve safety.
Meanwhile, Yew announced that RM335,000 had been allocated to upgrade a 500m section of Jalan Bunga Raya.
The JKR project includes road resurfacing works, construction of a pedestrian walkway and installation of road dividers aimed at improving safety and traffic flow in the area.
