RESIDENTS and business operators around the MRT Metro Prima station in Kepong, Kuala Lumpur, are upset an open space where they used to park their vehicles for free has been converted into a paid parking facility.
A notice at the site said the 80-car-capacity facility was opened to the public and users would be charged a fee from Sept 1.
Social activist Yee Poh Ping claimed that before it was turned into a privately managed carpark, residents and business proprietors used to park their vehicles at the open space for eight years without a fee.
“When the MRT track was built, much of this space was taken up,” he said, adding that the residents then raised their concerns and negotiated for alternative parking.
Yee said the parking facility now was insufficient to cope with the number of commuters with cars.
The facility was also heavily used by workers and customers of nearby shoplots, he added.
For nearby businesses, the closure of the free parking area has raised concerns over accessibility.
Kepong Engineer Trading owner Kng Wai said his workers have regularly parked their cars at the open area because street parking spaces were limited.
Customers could also face difficulties finding parking, while workers might have to arrive early to secure a parking space, he added.
As of Oct 5, Yee said machines and barrier gates for the parking were installed without stating anything about the rates.
Claiming that stakeholders were promised free parking facilities after the MRT station was completed, he is now seeking an answer on their behalf.
He said residents were not against proper management of the parking area, but wanted the authorities to consider the needs of the local community before introducing charges.
He urged the relevant authorities to engage with residents and shop operators and provide a clear explanation for the change in situation.
