KONSORTIUM Lebuhraya Utara-Timur (KL) Sdn Bhd (Kesturi) has responded on the issue of construction works on the Duke Highway at the KTMB (Keretapi Tanah Melayu Bhd) crossing near Sentul.
On the issue raised by residents of Jalan Khalsa over the construction of the Duta Link at the said KTMB crossing, Kesturi said all construction work on the Duke was being carried out with due approval and written permission from the relevant authorities.
Construction works have been carried out specifically within the hours designated by both the Malaysian Highway Authority and KTMB.
Kesturi acknowledged the inconvenience caused and has been actively engaging the relevant authorities and residents to find an amicable solution to the issues raised.
Latest efforts to meet with the authorities have indicated that there is unlikely to be any change in the allowable work hours for the Duke construction works, which is in effect until the end of this month, as this is subject to policy governing physical work around the railway crossing.
Kesturi is now looking into alternative means to alleviate the discomfort and inconvenience caused to residents during this period, and is willing to discuss various measures such as providing temporary accommodation solutions or compensation to the affected residents.
The concessionaire seeks the cooperation and understanding of affected residents to find an acceptable solution to the issue, so that the highway may be completed on time as promised to the public.
On the March 3 flooding at Jalan Ipoh, Kesturi would like to reiterate that the current construction works on the Duke are structural in nature and do not involve earthwork, and hence it was not the cause of the flood.
Furthermore, rainfall recorded on March 3 was exceptionally heavy, causing Sg Batu to overflow and resulting in flash floods in and around Jalan Ipoh.
Nevertheless, as part of the company's social obligation, Kesturi has cleared all drains surrounding the areas and would be meeting with the Jalan Khalsa residents to explain the situation.