SHAH ALAM – Residents of 21 houses in Kg Sg Chinchin, Gombak who were affected by flooding caused by the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) project will be temporarily relocated to rental homes, said Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari.
He said the costs would be borne by the project owner, Malaysia Rail Link Sdn Bhd (MRL).
This was agreed upon following a special meeting involving the Gombak District Office, Selayang Municipal Council, MRL and representatives of Sg Chinchin residents yesterday.
Amirudin said there has been an increase in the frequency of flash floods, noise and air pollution, as well as burst pipes which raised concerns and affected the quality of life for Sg Chinchin and North Gombak residents.
“Several decisions were made and I have directed that immediate action be taken, including the temporary relocation of residents of 21 houses affected by flooding, as they are in low-lying areas at risk of flooding throughout the construction period,” he said in a Facebook post today.
For the long term, Amirudin, who is also Gombak MP, said a retention pond will be built to address the flash flood issue in the area.
MRL also agreed to bear the cost of repairing damage to houses and the main road caused by blasting activities.
He said MRL acknowledged and agreed to halt work in the area on Sundays and certain days, such as examination days.
“The Gombak Parliamentary Office will cooperate with all parties, including residents and MRL, to ensure the smooth progress of the ECRL construction without compromising the wellbeing of the residents,” he said.
The ECRL, expected to begin operations in 2027, will connect the East Coast with the West Coast, spanning 20 stations across four states – Kelantan, Terengganu, Pahang and Selangor. – October 21, 2024