WHAT was once a quiet cul-de-sac could soon be transformed into a main road, raising concerns among residents of Taman Bukit Ria in Cheras.
Since early August, residents along Jalan Senjolong have been alarmed by works to open up the dead-end road, carried out by workers who claimed to be contractors engaged by Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL).
The community questioned why no prior notice was given to residents before works began, particularly those who would be directly affected by the proposed road opening.
Resident representative Stephen Foong said there was not even a project notice board detailing the works being carried out.
“We had to ask the workers what they were doing, and that was when they told us they were building an access road.
“Since then, we have been trying to get confirmation from the authorities, but there has been no response,” he said, adding that residents submitted a formal complaint to DBKL on Aug 3.
Foong said opening the dead-end road to through traffic would likely worsen congestion in the area.
“The plan to connect the road to Jalan 6/92B, which is a main road, will cause motorists to use this as a shortcut to Pandan Perdana and the MRR2.
“The main road is already jammed during peak hours, and now that traffic will be diverted here.
“Jalan Senjolong is a residential road and is not equipped to handle high volume of traffic,” he said during a gathering with about 15 other residents.
Resident Philip Phan said the proposed road opening also raised safety and security concerns.
“The workers removed our security gate, which had been installed about 15 years ago.
“Just a few days ago, there was a robbery at one of the houses here,” he said, adding that about 30 houses are located along Jalan Senjolong.
Foong said residents wanted an immediate stop-work order on all construction and demolition works at the Jalan Senjolong dead-end.
“We also want a site inspection and formal engagement session with DBKL officials, local representatives and residents before any further decisions are taken.”
Cheras MP Tan Kok Wai said his office would arrange for a meeting with DBKL this week.
“Previously, the other side of the fenced-up road was occupied by food stalls, but these were later abandoned.
“DBKL proposed clearing the abandoned and rundown stalls to open up the route and improve traffic flow, but should have notified the residents first,” said Tan.
