KL Residents Urge Reopening of Jalan Semantan Flyover to Combat Traffic Gridlock
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – Residents of Bukit Damansara and surrounding areas are calling for the immediate reopening of the Jalan Semantan flyover, which connects Jalan Beringin to Jalan Semantan. The closure of this vital infrastructure has significantly exacerbated traffic congestion, particularly for motorists heading into Kuala Lumpur city centre.
For months, commuters have endured frustrating delays and increased travel times due to the flyover's closure, which was initially intended for maintenance and repairs. However, the ongoing disruption is causing widespread concern and prompting residents to voice their grievances to local authorities.
“The closure has turned a 15-minute journey into a 45-minute ordeal, especially during peak hours,” lamented a Bukit Damansara resident, Mr. Tan. “We understand that maintenance is necessary, but the extended closure and lack of clear communication from the relevant departments are simply unacceptable.”
The situation is particularly challenging for those who rely on this route to access key areas in KL, including the Mont Kiara and Hartamas neighbourhoods. The increased volume of vehicles now using alternative routes has created bottlenecks and further aggravated the traffic situation.
Impact on Businesses and Daily Life
The traffic woes are not only impacting commuters but also affecting local businesses. Delivery services are facing delays, and customers are hesitant to visit establishments in the affected areas due to the difficulty of navigating the congested roads. This has a ripple effect on the local economy.
“We’ve noticed a significant drop in customers since the flyover closure,” said a restaurant owner in Mont Kiara. “People are simply avoiding the area because of the traffic. We hope the authorities will expedite the reopening of the flyover to alleviate this problem.”
Calls for Transparency and Expedited Repairs
Residents are urging the Public Works Department (PWD) and Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) to provide greater transparency regarding the progress of the repairs and a firm timeline for the flyover's reopening. They also request that alternative traffic management strategies be implemented to mitigate the congestion in the meantime.
“We need a clear plan and a commitment from the authorities to resolve this issue as quickly as possible,” stated a spokesperson for the Bukit Damansara Residents Association. “The current situation is unsustainable and is negatively impacting the quality of life for many residents.”
The reopening of the Jalan Semantan flyover is seen as a crucial step towards easing traffic congestion and restoring normalcy to the Bukit Damansara and Mont Kiara areas. Residents remain hopeful that their concerns will be addressed promptly and effectively.
What are the next steps? Residents plan to organize a petition and engage with local MPs to further amplify their concerns and push for a swift resolution to the flyover closure.