Residents of Sophea Residence, Bandar Sri Damansara, Petaling Jaya are calling upon the authorities to address the safety concerns posed by numerous fallen or overgrown trees in their neighborhood.
Sophea Residence Residents Association committee secretary SP Lee stated that several complaints have been filed with the Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ) since the beginning of this year, but there has been minimal action taken.
Although MBPJ did clear some fallen trees from the roads a few days prior to StarMetro’s visit, Lee acknowledged that this action has not fully resolved the issue as there are still numerous trees and branches on the ground.
A tree leaning too close to a resident’s house.
Within the area, several toppled trees and fallen branches can be seen along the sidewalks and within the playground, with evidence of damaged fences as well.
Lee also expressed concern about some trees that are dangerously leaning towards houses, stating, “I’m worried that the trees will fall over and damage properties.”
In addition, there have been instances where trees have fallen even in the absence of rain or wind, raising concerns about potential dangers. Lee emphasized the need for authorities to take action before any accidents occur.
Committee member Loh Chia Ping mentioned that although they are willing to hire contractors to trim the trees, they do not have permission from the authorities to do so.
“Taking matters into our own hands comes with penalties,” Loh added.
Loh also highlighted a complaint from a resident living at the corner lot of Jalan Ara SD7/1D, whose home and roof have been repeatedly damaged by branches from a nearby tree.
Another committee member, Ken Huu, revealed that MBPJ has refused to cut down certain trees, claiming that residents had planted them. However, Huu countered this by saying, “These trees were not planted by the residents; they grew on their own.”
A copy of the report filed by residents to the Petaling Jaya mayor has been forwarded to area councillor Suriase Gengiah. Gengiah confirmed that he has passed the report to MBPJ’s Landscape Department, which will take necessary measures to trim and remove hazardous trees, safeguarding the residents.
Credit: The Star : Metro Feed
