RECENT incidents of trees falling in Kuala Lumpur after a storm are part of a worrying trend of weather-related infrastructural problems, particularly in the Klang Valley.

Over the past five years, we have witnessed a rise in floods in carparks, roads, and housing estates. Amenities and shelters have been damaged by storms. Roofs have been blown off, and giant potholes have appeared after heavy rain.

It’s imperative we take action now before the situation worsens.

Weather patterns are rapidly changing. Days are hotter, rainfalls heavier. Shifts between severe weather are more frequent and unpredictable.

It is no longer sufficient to simply fell trees and clear rubbish traps to prevent disasters. Our local councils must take a proactive approach beyond holding townhall sessions and setting up hotlines.

These changing realities, including rising water levels, redrawn waterfront lines, and higher population density, must be considered in township planning.

We must also prepare for the impending carbon credit system, with measures to offset carbon emissions integrated into housing and development projects.

This includes creating more parks and urban water catchment areas, improving storm drains, and introducing heat control systems.

Without such measures, areas may become commercially unviable, leading to abandoned infrastructure and economic disruption.

Commercial zones, including shopping malls, should be guided to weather-proof themselves, with guidelines for safety during thunderstorms and early warning systems for their tenants and visitors.

Evacuation plans should also incorporate responses to weather-related emergencies, which pose unique challenges because of their broader impact.

While we have been fortunate so far in avoiding widespread loss of lives and livelihoods, we cannot rely on luck alone.

It’s time to take proactive steps to weatherproof our cities and ensure the safety and resilience of our infrastructure. – May 16, 2024.

* Emmanuel Joseph firmly believes that Klang is the best place on Earth, and that motivated people can do far more good than any leader with motive.