Dumping grounds have emerged in empty shoplots in Bukit Beruntung, Bukit Sentosa, and Serendah in Hulu Selangor. These shoplots are filled with rubbish, which is then set on fire by the perpetrators. The presence of other businesses nearby does not deter these actions. A recent incident occurred at a shoplot along Jalan Indah 1 in Taman Serendah Indah, where the burnt site revealed charred rubbish and emitted an acrid odor. Among the remains were household rubbish such as plastic bags, furniture, boxes, and food packaging.
Another visit to a vacant unit on Jalan Trompet 6 in Bukit Beruntung discovered household items and furniture piled up to the ceiling. Unaware of the potential danger posed by the rubbish and the possibility of attracting rodents and snakes, children were seen playing near the site. The vicinity also includes a kindergarten, a school, restaurants, sundry shops, and car workshops.
Discarded furniture and other household items dumped at one shoplot in Jalan Trompet 6, Bukit Beruntung.
Bandar Bukit Beruntung Residents Association chairman Augustine Maria Dasan, a resident of Bukit Beruntung for 27 years, expressed concern over the common sight of vacant rubbish-strewn shoplots in Bukit Beruntung and Bukit Sentosa. He pointed out that the piled rubbish poses a threat as it can lead to a rapid escalation of dengue within the community. Augustine is hopeful that the situation will improve now that the district council has become a municipal council.
Another resident, Jamaludin Bahali, from Taman Melati in Serendah, fears that illicit activities may be taking place in the abandoned lots. He urges residents to inform the council so that appropriate action can be taken. Jamaludin believes that some irresponsible residents, frustrated with poor rubbish collection, retaliate by using the shoplots as dumping grounds. He describes the abandoned premises, which have been an eyesore for over two decades, as a pressing issue.
Charred rubbish at a shoplot with blackened walls in Taman Serendah Indah.
The corporate director of Hulu Selangor Municipal Council, Junainah Abdullah, emphasizes that it is the responsibility of shoplot owners to secure their premises by ensuring that doors, windows, and shutters are always shut. Action cannot be taken by the council since the rubbish is inside the premises; thus, they can only issue a notice to the shoplot owners. Junainah encourages witnesses to report illegal activities, assuring them that their identities will remain confidential. In recent years, informants have been rewarded, while culprits caught in the act have faced hefty fines. Complaints can be lodged at https:// shorturl.at/bsuX3 or by calling 03-6064 1331.
Credit: The Star : Metro Feed
