KUALA LUMPUR: Traders in Jalan Masjid India area expressed hope that the authorities will conduct a thorough investigation and inspection of the soil conditions in the area, to ensure the safety of both traders and customers.
This appeal comes in the wake of a second sinkhole incident, reported near the police beat at Jalan Masjid India, earlier Wednesday (Aug 28).
Sarini Shamima Bahurdeen, 47, an employee of a goldsmith here, expressed concern about the safety of the area, saying that people are now hesitant to visit the area, particularly after the discovery of a second sinkhole.
"My family has even refused to come here. I sincerely hope that a thorough investigation of the soil conditions is conducted, as it concerns the safety and property of both traders and residents,” she said.
She added that business has suffered in areas frequented by tourists and foreign workers, where sales of souvenirs and necessities have noticeably declined since Friday's incident.
Another trader, known as Nathen, 35, who sells children's toys, expressed hope that the government will take action to prevent future sinkhole incidents, which have discouraged people from visiting the area.
"Usually, families with children would stop by my shop, but since the road has been closed to vehicles, we’ve seen a significant drop in customer traffic,” he said.
On Friday (Aug 23), Vijayalaksmi, 48, from Kuppam, Andhra Pradesh, India, went missing after falling into an eight-metre-deep hole caused by a sudden ground collapse. The search and rescue operation to locate her is now entering its sixth day. - Bernama
