RESIDENTS in Setiawangsa who opposed the development of another high-rise condominium in the area proposed for a parking lot with a recreational park to be built instead.

During a hearing with Kuala Lumpur City Hall today, residents at Desa Putra Condominium said that the traffic congestion in the area was due to a lack of proper parking for LRT commuters.

Desa Putra deputy chairman Faudzain Ghazali said the high population density would also get worse once the 46-storey condominium with 382 units is developed.

“If we want to encourage LRT usage, why is there no proper public parking available to overcome the illegal parking?” he asked.

Faudzain said there are currently only 15 parking spots at the Sri Rampai LRT, and cars have started parking close to the entrance of the condominium due to illegal parking.

Residents have instead called for a development of an eight-storey parking lot with a recreational park at the land meant for the condominium.

They had also previously asked to obtain impact assessment reports from the developer, but were denied by DBKL.

DBKL executive director (planning) Mahadi Che Ngah had said he would try to discuss with the developer to allow the residents to obtain the reports.

Mahadi also said he would get back with the residents within two weeks after the hearing, after the matter is brought up to the mayor.

Setiawangsa MP Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad was also present and said the traffic issue should be the main focus.

“When I gave my views, I also asked for land density issue to be the main focus. Based on the draft plan, it is residential land, and therefore has lower density compared with commercial land,” he told reporters after the hearing.

Last year, the residents had protested two commercial projects, Wangsa 9 and Hamilton, but the projects were approved by DBKL and will be completed in the next three years. – October 26, 2018.