KUALA LUMPUR: The plan by Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) to build a 500m bicycle lane along Jalan Ampang has raised concern among building owners, including MCA, where its headquarters Wisma MCA is located.
Some are worried that a bicycle lane on the heavily used road may affect traffic flow in an area that has undergone significant development.
MCA deputy president Datuk Dr Mah Hang Soon said the party received a letter from DBKL on Sept 26 about the bicycle lane.
"While the project sounds promising, the multi-lane road in front of Wisma MCA is congested during peak hours.
"There's concern about the road narrowing to a single lane.
"Also, there could be potential interference with essential infrastructure like sewerage and utilities located underground," he said when met after opening the 60th MCA Youth annual general meeting here on Saturday (Oct 19).
Previously, Dr Mah described the lack of consultation with MCA and other property owners as puzzling.
He said the plan affects not only Wisma MCA, which faces a 10m encroachment on its road reserve and setback area, and 4m for neighbouring buildings.
The plan also proposes several kiosks in front of Wisma MCA, he said, adding that the parking area serves as an emergency evacuation point in case of fire.
"If transformed into a bicycle lane and kiosks are built, the uneven road surface will complicate matters, especially given flash flooding issues in the past on the other side of the road," said Dr Mah.
He added that MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong is protesting the plan together with other property owners but has yet to receive a response.
"We have made our protest clear and hope the Federal Territories Minister will halt this plan.
"It does not enhance the area but rather adds complications, affecting underground systems and increasing congestion.
"MCA and other owners have voiced their objection and are awaiting further communication from DBKL," he said.
