A MAJOR problem and shortcoming in Malaysia is the lack of proper maintenance and upkeep once a project is completed and handed over to the authorities.
The MRT Kajang and Putrajaya lines completed a few years ago now have large trees growing too near to the elevated tracks and this could create untoward incidents especially when trees have grown too tall and large, and small branches could snap and be blown onto the tracks during a heavy thunderstorm forcing stoppage in the service to clear the tracks.
The MRT reserves needs to be properly maintained by clearing the reserves and preventing trees that could become a problem later.
The reserves which are about 20 ft wide in some locations and wider in other places need the concern and attention of the MRT management.
In some places there is hardly any room for the growth of any vegetation or trees but in the majority of areas mostly beyond the built-up areas in urban areas there is plenty of land where trees can grow and in the future pose a problem.
Lack of care in maintaining the reserve invites trespassing and other irresponsible activities like excavations, dumping rubbish and setting fires.
Very much like how TNB maintains its power line reserves by employing contractors to regularly clear the transmission reserve of undergrowth and brush as a preventive measure, the MRT too needs to follow suit.
A well maintained reserve could ensure safety and be helpful in case of any emergencies as it will provide easier and convenient access anywhere along or under the tracks.
In some places one finds small businesses, whether permission has been granted or not, being conducted in the MRT reserve. Since the MRT is not making any profits now it can use the reserves, wherever possible, to be rented out to earn money to cope with its expenses.
KTM’s Railway Asset Corporation rents out areas along the railway tracks for businesses and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and earns money for permission to use the reserve.
This is very helpful for small businesses that cannot pay high rents. Some of the MRT reserves are in prime locations for commercially viable purposes such as carparks, used car business, horticultural nurseries, food courts and others.
They are much safer than the KTM or TNB reserves and can be rented out. If utilised well the MRT can make a few million ringgit yearly.
Furthermore, the large vacant lands in the Sg Buloh and Kajang depots are not fully utilised and can be rented to needy commercial interests temporarily until such time when it is needed. Now these areas resemble a mini-jungle and should instead be put to good economic use.
Even the streetlights leading to these depots are faulty and have not lighted up for months if not years. MRT needs to take into consideration that good maintenance and proper upkeep enhance the image of any company and its operations.
It should also create a favourable impression of the service used by millions of commuters. It is hoped that the MRT management and the Transport Ministry will look at this feedback positively and act on it. – April 9, 2025
Main image: Wikipedia
