Persistent Flooding and Drainage Issues in Damansara Perdana
A road in Damansara Perdana, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, has been facing recurring flooding due to a malfunctioning underground drainage system. During a recent visit by StarMetro, the road was found covered in sediment, with a strong odor emanating from the stagnant water that attracted numerous flies.
The affected area is located on low ground and is flanked by two popular eateries along Jalan PJU8/5c. The owner of one of these restaurants, Sandy Chan, shared her concerns about the long-standing issue, which has worsened significantly since June.
“The stagnant water and its smell are terrible. We have had customers complain, and it is certainly unhygienic,” said Chan, who has managed 13 stalls at her restaurant since it opened in 2001. She reported the problem to the Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ) in June and even hired contractors at a cost of RM3,000 to clean the area herself.
Chan emphasized the importance of maintaining a clean and hygienic environment, especially for a food business. “We need a clean environment because we run a food business. During the cleanup, we discovered broken drain slabs. The workers removed the slabs along with a large amount of sediment from the drain,” she explained.
However, MBPJ later issued her a summons and ordered her eatery to close for three days in July, accusing her of clogging the drains. “But we wouldn’t do that. We want clean drains too, because it is crucial for our business,” she stressed.
Despite the cleanup efforts by Chan, the road continued to flood. “Our premises are on lower ground, so water stagnates here. Since the drainage system is broken, there is nowhere for the water to flow,” she noted.
Following inspections by MBPJ, Chan was informed by its Health Department at the end of August that repair work on the drainage system would be carried out soon. “MBPJ has taken note of the situation, but so far, only cleanups are carried out every few days. I have lodged multiple complaints, so I hope the city council will repair the drain soon as it is affecting our business,” she said.
Chan added, “We see MBPJ workers cleaning the area, but after a downpour, the whole place is flooded again, with murky water everywhere.”
Her customer, G. Guan, who often dines at the eatery, agreed that the drainage issue was serious. “The water stagnates again just days after a cleanup. MBPJ needs to handle this area better. There are many abandoned cars and this flooding issue is persistent. This problem has been ongoing for years and it is now at its worst. People should be able to dine in a clean environment,” he said.
Area councillor Suriase Gengiah confirmed that MBPJ was aware of the issue and that repair work would begin once a contractor was appointed. “MBPJ has conducted its inspection and investigated the problem. Repair work will begin very soon,” he added.
However, Suriase was unable to indicate when the repairs were expected to begin. The ongoing issue highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive solution to the drainage problems in the area. Residents and business owners alike are hoping for swift action to prevent further disruptions and ensure a safer, cleaner environment.
