New access to Kerinchi Link to ease congestion in Desa Sri Hartamas

RESIDENTS of Desa Sri Hartamas, Kuala Lumpur, can access the Kerinchi Link directly via Jalan Sri Hartamas 22 which is now open to two-way traffic.

Segambut MP Hannah Yeoh, who launched the access, said the new contraflow on the route would undergo a six-month trial period from June 8 to Dec 7.

Prior to this, she said, motorists could access Kerinchi Link only through Jalan 23/70a, a road adjacent to Jalan Sri Hartamas 22.

“This caused heavy congestion in Jalan 23/70a, especially during the morning and evening peak hours,” she said.

“The new contraflow provides an alternative to drivers, which can then reduce traffic volume along Jalan 23/70a.”

Yeoh, who is also Youth and Sports Minister, said her team would monitor the impact of the change throughout the trial period together with Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) and Malaysian Highway Authority.

Also present at the launch were Desa Sri Hartamas Owners and Tenants Association president Abu Bakar Ibrahim and Desa Sri Hartamas residents’ representative Mohamed Shukri Mohamed Zain.

Abu Bakar said he was keen to see the impact of the move which could reduce congestion along Jalan 23/70a.

“However, some compromises have to be made.

“The contraflow may cause us to lose some parking bays in Jalan Sri Hartamas 22.

“We have highlighted this concern to the authorities and we will look for a viable solution together,” Abu Bakar added.

Mohamed Shukri said the new contraflow could improve the services of first responders operating along Jalan 23/70a.

“The police and Fire and Rescue stations are located along Jalan 23/70a.

“It becomes problematic for them when there is a traffic jam there.

“The police and firefighters there can work better after the implementation of the contraflow,” Mohamed Shukri said.

He also urged drivers to refrain from double-parking as it would worsen traffic conditions.