TTDI residents against MRT system

PETALING JAYA: Residents of Taman Tun Dr Ismail (TTDI) near here have rejected the proposed mass rapid transit (MRT) system, saying that it will turn their residential area into a “living hell” with non-stop traffic jams and other problems.

They claimed the MRT trains would create noise pollution while the rail tracking pillars would be an eyesore.

Their objection was heard during a dialogue with the Land Public Transport Commission (LPTC) at Eastin Hotel here yesterday.

The dialogue was the first of the many sessions by the LPTC with the public who are affected by the construction and alignment of the country’s first MRT system.

The commission’s officials, led by its chief executive officer Mohd Nur Ismail Kamal, also met with residents of Cheras and Kajang separately at Institut KWSP in Bandar Baru Bangi.

The first round of these sessions with residents focused on the environmental impact assessment (EIA) report of the RM40bil project, with emphasis on the first phase of what may eventually be part of a proposed 150km line.

This first phase, known as the Sungai Buloh-Kajang line, will provide public transportation to areas with little or no public transport now.

A TTDI resident association (RA) representative asked the LPTC to consider constructing an underground track for the section.

“This may cost more but when there is so much protest, it can be the best alternative. Otherwise, we wouldn’t mind if you (LPTC) bypass us,” said the representative, who wished to be identified only as Halim.

Another RA representative from Sunway Damansara said the landscape of some areas including Persiaran Surian would be affected by the sheer size of the pillars and the elevated track.

“The pillars and tracking would look like a monster and could have an impact on the value of the properties in the area,” he said.

“If the noise from the present LRT is already annoying, the one created by the MRT trains would be unbearable and who wants to live in a noisy residential area?”

Mohd Nur Ismail told the residents that the track alignment plan was still at the provisional stage and adjustments could be made after the commission completed the dialogue sessions.

“We will study the comments and feedback thoroughly before we put the plan for public display.

“Even when it is being displayed, the public could still give us their feedback and we will work out the best solution,” he said.