At least seven months to repair Masjid Jamek LRT stretch, says Transport Minister

KUALA LUMPUR: Repairs to the Ampang LRT line between the Masjid Jamek and Bandaraya stations are expected to take up to seven months, says the Transport Minister

Anthony Loke said Prasarana Bhd is in the process of hiring contractors to carry out the works, expected to begin in March.

“This period covers two months of temporary repairs and five months for comprehensive repairs.

“Repair work will take time because investigations show that the damage to the affected structure has serious safety risks,” he told a press conference in Parliament on Wednesday (Feb 22).

ALSO READ: Stop-work order after cracks on LRT line

Loke also said investigations found that three viaduct structures and piers were cracked, believed to be caused by construction of a 44-storey hotel nearby.

Loke also said the construction project did not obtain the approval of the Land Public Transport Agency (Apad).

“Construction projects near railways must get approval from Apad. We are disappointed by this incident, in which the project began without this approval.

“We take this matter seriously because it has affected Prasarana’s operations and disrupts the daily journey of hundreds of thousands of passengers.

“After thorough investigations are completed, we will see if legal action can be taken," he added.

ALSO READ: LRT disruption: Bandaraya-Masjid Jamek stretch closed for two weeks, says Loke

Loke also apologised to commuters for the inconvenience, and added that the temporary feeder bus service introduced on Jan 27 will continue.

“As long as there’s no green light by our consultants, we will not reopen (the line),” he said. “Commuter safety must be prioritised."

On Jan 28, Rapid Rail said it decided to close the route between the Masjid Jamek and Bandaraya stations for safety reasons.

Shuttle services and alternate bus services have been provided for affected passengers.