The Alliance for a Safe Community is concerned over the placing of dining tables and chairs along public streets.
While we acknowledge the efforts of small and medium- sized eateries to boost their business, this practice poses safety risks.
Vehicles have veered off the road and ploughed into roadside diners, leading to serious injuries, and deaths.
These incidents prove that public roads are not designed to be dining areas.
We propose the setting up of designated street dining zones.
Local authorities should identify areas for safe roadside dining.
These must have adequate space and minimal traffic exposure.
Secondly, concrete or water-filled safety barriers are needed where roadside dining is allowed.
These can prevent vehicles from accidentally entering dining spaces.
We also call for a clear set of safety and operational guidelines.
These should include operating hours, permits and regular safety audits.
Additionally, dining setups must not block walkways or traffic lanes.
Finally, local councils should engage with nearby residents and stakeholders before granting approval for any roadside dining setups.
This will allow the local councils to assess the impact of these arrangements.
We urge the local government, food operators and the public to come together to make our streets safer for all.
TAN SRI LEE LAM THYE
Chairman
Alliance for a Safe Community
