THERE was much to cheer when phase two of the Mass Rapid Transit Sungai Buloh-Kajang line (MRT SBK) opened this year.
Beginning operations on July 17, it completes the 51km MRT SBK line that starts in Sungai Buloh, passes through Kuala Lumpur and ends in Kajang. For Kajang folk, the MRT provides an alternative route to the city centre while non-residents find it a convenient mode for them to explore Kajang’s many attractions, including its famous satay. Commuters can satisfy their satay cravings by taking one train ride to the Stadium Kajang MRT station.
According to locals, when the line was launched, there was a noticeable increase in the number of visitors to Kajang and less traffic on the road. More people were seen making weekend trips to Kajang via the MRT. The half-price fare also played a part in encouraging ridership.
However, the situation seems to have returned to normal after the initial excitement. Another reason to celebrate was the reduction in illegal dumping cases in the municipality. This was attributed to stricter enforcement by Kajang Municipal Council (MPKj).
MPKj president Mohd Sayuthi Bakar proclaimed that the council was aiming for zero illegal dumping.It was reported that more than 100 lorries had been caught dumping waste indiscriminately and stern action by the council had served as a deterrent to others, leading to a drop in such cases.
Mohd Sayuthi said the enforcement involved regular patrolling to nab offenders, especially those who dumped industrial waste at known hotspots. This year, the council also introduced its “padang angkat” (Adopt A Park) programme. Mohd Sayuthi said the council identified five to six parks and would make the necessary repairs and beautification works before handing them over to residents associations (RAs).
“The RAs will be the eyes and ears of the council; they will watch out for vandals out to damage playground facilities.
“Without a sense of belonging, people will take public facilities for granted instead of ensuring the equipment is in good condition,” Mohd Sayuthi was quoted as saying.
Source : thestar.com.my
