DESPITE being part of Kuala Lumpur’s Golden Triangle, the back lanes of Bukit Bintang, particularly in high-traffic areas like Jalan Alor, project a different image that could be described as neglected and accident-prone.
These alleyways, regularly used by both vehicles and pedestrians, are riddled with missing drain covers, exposed manholes and makeshift repairs, posing a threat to public safety.
The presence of popular eateries and constant traffic only amplifies these risks, raising concerns about the state of infrastructure in this key commercial zone, especially in light of the recent sinkhole incident in Masjid India.
Following public complaints about the deplorable state of the city’s drains and drainage system, StarMetro visited the area to assess the conditions.
This drain behind Jalan Alor is on the verge of collapsing. (Right) Another lane in the Bukit Bintang area where several drains are without covers. — Photos: AZMAN GHANI/The Star
In one particular area behind Jalan Alor, there were several uncovered drains that were damaged.
There were five drains without covers or which had collapsed, with wooden planks placed as makeshift solutions.
Nearby areas had similar conditions, with numerous manholes and drains either missing their covers or replaced with precarious wooden planks.
These exposed structures pose a serious hazard to both pedestrians walking along the narrow pavements and vehicles passing through the lanes, especially at night.
At another location, a broken drain cover left debris scattered around the opening.
The drain, made of metal grates, had one section completely broken, leaving a large hole exposed.
“After the Masjid India tragedy, I’ve become very conscious of the dangers posed by exposed drains and manholes,” said Tracy Tan, an IT executive working in Jalan Imbi.
“It’s like a ticking time bomb. With missing drain covers, exposed manholes, crumbling infrastructure and frequent rain around the city, it’s only a matter of time before someone gets seriously hurt.”
Roger Lee, who works nearby, said, “At night, the dangers in Bukit Bintang’s back lanes are even worse.
“Poor lighting makes these areas extremely hazardous.
“It’s an accident waiting to happen, especially for unsuspecting pedestrians.”
Bukit Bintang Central Environment Committee (BBCEC) chairman Simon Leong said they first noticed the state of the drains during their bi-monthly walkabout sessions.
“Two weeks ago, we saw the condition of the drains – the broken covers, missing grates and the temporary fixes that had been put in place.
“We reported the matter to Kuala Lumpur City Hall’s (DBKL) Civil Engineering and Drainage Department,” he said.
“These issues are widespread in the back lanes and alleyways of the township, with the drains in particularly bad shape.
“While the wooden planks are a temporary measure, we hope the authorities will treat this matter with urgency.”
When contacted, an officer from DBKL’s Corporate Communications Unit said they were checking on the matter and will ensure the relevant departments are notified.
