Masjid Jamek-Bandaraya stretch on Ampang LRT route reopens

KUALA LUMPUR: The stretch between the Masjid Jamek and Bandaraya LRT stations on the Ampang route has finally reopened after being closed for over a year. (Feb 17)

Transport Minister Anthony Loke announced during a site visit that the structural repairs causing the closure had been completed. He stated that the repair works were finished in December 2023 and tests had been carried out last month. The Land Public Transport Agency (Apad) is also satisfied with the repairs, he added. (Jan 17)

Loke explained that the structural damage was due to construction works next to the track, but assured that passengers no longer need to take feeder buses to complete their journey along the route. He also mentioned that the ministry would continue monitoring the area as construction works were still ongoing next to the station. (Feb 17)

Emphasizing that the construction project was under the Kuala Lumpur City Hall’s jurisdiction and not under their control, Loke stated that strict conditions need to be set to prevent similar issues in the future. He advised local authorities to ensure that any development near public transport, especially rail stations, takes safety factors into account. (Feb 17)

Loke also mentioned that Prasarana, the operator of the LRT service, would claim compensation from the developers involved for the damage. A compensation of RM38mil is being sought, covering repair costs and the provision of feeder bus services. (Feb 17)

In January 2023, the LRT service along the Ampang route was suspended due to a kinked track alignment near the Bandaraya station. Rapid Rail then closed the stretch between the Masjid Jamek and Bandaraya stations for safety purposes, forcing LRT passengers to use alternatives such as buses. (Feb 17)