Despite safety issues, contractors are once again clearing a part of Robson Hill in Kuala Lumpur that will be used for the construction of a six-storey HIV rehabilitation centre, reported The Star.
In February 2013, the Islamic Development Department (Jakim) was instructed to build the structure in its hill land, but the development was stopped after protests from the area’s residents.
An independent surveyor also determined that the site at Lot 106, Lorong Syed Putra Kiri has a slope of 26°, meaning it highly susceptible to landslides. Notably, land with a gradient of 26° to 35° are categorised as Class III, while the higher risk class IV has an angle of over 35°.
Consequently, the mayor back then issued a stop-work order as the land-clearing work commenced before Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) gave its approval and the contractor needed to implement some safety measures.
He also said that the Public Works Department would stabilise the slope, install silt traps and upgrade the drainage system before proceeding with the construction to ensure the safety of the project.
However, residents do not know if these had not been done, and after a four-year hiatus, clearing work resumed in January 2017.
According to Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) Executive Director for Planning Datuk Mohd Najib Mohd, Jakim has appointed a new contractor after the previous one went bankrupt.
“The approval and building plan are in force, so as long as there are no changes, the project can take off at any time. DBKL allows development on Class III and IV slopes provided there are engineering solutions.”
He also revealed that projects classified as institutional or religious under the government, or registered charitable organisations are exempt from Rule 5, meaning these developments do not require consultation with nearby residents.
However, residents of Robson Hill, especially those living in Robson Heights condominiums and Le Chateau II, fear that the construction of the rehabilitation centre may destabilise the slope, further raising the risk of landslides in the area.
“In 2013 alone, there were 21 landslides on that slope. A few sinkholes have appeared along Lorong Syed Putra Kiri in the past as well,” said Richard Gardner, a long-time resident of Le Chateau II.
Kingston Oh, a resident of Robson Heights condominium, also feels that the development would endanger their safety and those visiting Thean Hou Temple.
“Hundreds of people live in Robson Heights and the temple also attracts a large crowd of tourists. Should a landslide happen, these two buildings, which are on higher ground, will be the first to come crashing down.”
“DBKL has approved a high-risk development and put our lives on the line. We want to know the details of the plan and we demand a hearing,” he added.
Image sourced from The Star
Diane Foo Eu Lynn, Senior Content Specialist at PropertyGuru, edited this story. To contact her about this or other stories email diane@propertyguru.com.my
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