Ayer Kuning assemblyman Ishsam Shahruddin speaking to the affected traders. - Photo: Bernama
TAPAH: All complaints and suggestions from 18 traders in Tapah town who claim they are incurring losses due to a decline in customers following the implementation of the one-way traffic system in the town will be brought to the relevant authorities, says Ishsam Shahruddin.
The Ayer Kuning assemblyman emphasised that engagement sessions and dialogues between traders and stakeholders involved in the system's implementation are crucial to gather data and facts on the issues raised.
"Leaders and elected representatives in this area are always attentive to the concerns expressed by the traders, as they are part of the community here.
"In the short term, to address the traders' problems, the Tapah District Council (MDT) has placed all traders at the Expo Site on Jalan Baldwin 1.
"MDT has also held two meetings in June and July, and all parties agreed," he told a press conference here on Wednesday (Oct 2).
He said this following a dialogue between the traders and involved agencies, organised by the Batang Padang district Malay Hawkers and Petty Traders Association, which was also attended by Chenderiang assemblyman Choong Shin Heng.
On Aug 23, the Batang Padang Public Works Department (JKR) launched the one-way traffic system in Tapah town, abolishing the traffic lights at the T-junction in front of Tapah Hospital.
Earlier, the media reported that traders claimed the changes caused issues, including a lack of parking spaces, leading to a loss of customers, and safety concerns due to speeding vehicles.
Meanwhile, Ishsam said the purpose of the one-way system is to reduce congestion and improve traffic flow in the area.
"The main issue we want to solve is the congestion that occurs every weekend, during school holidays, and festive seasons, which has been ongoing for a long time.
"Not every decision or step we take will be liked, and there will be opposition, but we will try to find a solution that ensures no one is left out," he said.
He added that they have received positive feedback from road users who noted that traffic flow in and out of Tapah town is now smoother compared to when the traffic lights were in place.
"As I mentioned earlier, although there are concerns raised by roadside traders, we are not ignoring them, and we will bring their voices forward to find the best solution," he said. — Bernama
