Missing grille bars pose a danger to pedestrians

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MISSING grille bars on the busy road at 3 1/2 mile Jalan Cheras near the Sri Sabah flats is a cause of worry for resident Manimaran Krishnan.

The stretch of fence at the road divider is to prevent pedestrians from crossing the heavy traffic-laden road, and for them to use an overhead walkway.

However, according to Manimaran, since some of the grilles went missing about three months ago, some people now prefer to cross the road instead of using the pedestrian walkway.

“Yesterday, I saw an old lady crossing the road through the gap. With a school just nearby, I’m afraid there are schoolchildren following suit,” said Manimaran, 48, who works as a swimming pool repairman.

Dangerous: The gap from a section of the missing grille fence has resulted in some pedestrians taking the easy route out by crossing the busy road instead of using the pedestrian bridge.

“It is dangerous and I’m worried that accidents will happen,” he added.

Shopkeeper Gouri Gevana-then, who runs a small sundry shop nearby, said there were bound to be people crossing the road daily.

“Old folks and children will do that too,” said Gouri, 33.

“It’s a easy way for them. The old women carrying bags with goods from the market find it difficult to climb the stairs.

“Sometimes, children on bicycles also across the road when traffic is less heavy.

“However, it is still a busy stretch,” she said.

Gouri said she would advise schoolchildren if she spoted them wanting to cross the road.

Manimaran also pointed out to a big gap on the side kerb which is filled with rubbish.

“Luckily, water is still able to flow through when it rains.

“But I’m concerned if there is water trapped in between the garbage pile which is an ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes.

“The situation here is also dark at night and unsuspecting pedestrians may just trip over.

“I hope the Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) will act on both these problems to prevent any possible mishap,” he said, although admitting that he had not made any formal complaints to DBKL so far on the issues.