MNS: Ensure safety for wildlife, motorists
JOHOR BARU: A thorough study must be conducted before construction begins on Phase Four of the East Coast Highway (LPT4) to address wildlife safety and potential risks to motorists, says the Malaysian Nature Society (MNS).
MNS Johor chapter adviser Vincent Chow said that while development along the state’s east coast is necessary, proper planning and environmental considerations are crucial.
“The eastern side of Johor, particularly around Kota Tinggi and Mersing, is home to diverse wildlife species.
“In some areas such as Panti in Kota Tinggi, they are known as elephant crossing zones.
“Tigers, which are highly endangered and protected under Malaysian law, also inhabit the area,” he said.
Chow cautioned that the risk of human-wildlife conflicts could increase if the proposed highway is developed without taking wildlife habitats into account.
He urged the government to seriously consider the feedback given by stakeholders, including MNS, before moving ahead with the proposed project.
“Other developed countries have implemented highway designs near forests that minimise the risk of wildlife being hit by vehicles.
“Similar methods should be considered here,” he said on Saturday.
Chow suggested that measures such as constructing animal crossings or elevating sections of the highway to safeguard both wildlife and motorists.
In a recent Facebook post, state works, transportation, infrastructure and communications committee chairman Mohamad Fazli Mohamad Salleh said there are comprehensive plans to develop highway and road networks across Johor, including the LPT4.
He said the projects were originally proposed under the National Highway Development Plan (NHDP) for development after 2030, but rapid growth in the state has prompted the Johor government to prioritise them.
“An allocation of RM25mil has been approved for preliminary work, including traffic studies, engineering design and route proposals, which will begin this year,” he said.
He added that the proposed LPT4 will span 142km from Ulu Tiram to Mersing, aiming to develop surrounding areas and complement the existing East Coast Highway connecting Johor via Kuantan, Pahang.
Mohamad Fazli said that the projects are expected to cover three main sections, namely, Johor Baru to Kota Tinggi (30km), Kota Tinggi to Mersing (80km) and Mersing to Endau (32km).
He added that engagement between the state government and the Works Ministry is still ongoing to ensure these projects maximise development benefits in the state and improves convenience for local residents.
