KUCHING: State Reform Party (STAR) has called on Kuching North City Commission (DBKU) to enhance the safety of pedestrians by covering the drains along Carpenter Street and Ewe Hai Street here.
Party president Lina Soo said the request was made by residents and shop operators in the areas.
“The drains at Main Bazaar and Jalan Tun Abang Haji Openg are covered but not those at the Harmony Arch gateway and Carpenter Street,” she added.
Soo pointed out that Carpenter Street adjoining Ewe Hai Street was a historical part of Kuching City. It had four popular temples and was the venue for the annual Intercultural Mooncake Festival.
She added that with the opening up of many pubs and food joint, the street had the potential to be a popular night spot for food and beverages not just for tourists but also the local population.
“Covered drains not only make a street better, but pedestrians’ safety must be a prime concern of the council as uncovered drains are a potential hazard for unsuspecting visitors. One can accidentally fall into a drain and break a bone,” she said.
Soo also called for the night lighting at Carpenter Street and the Harmony Arch to be improved.
She suggested that an overhead pedestrian bridge be built to link Vivacity Megamall to Lorong Wan Alwi as well.
“At the very least, provide a pedestrian crossing at the traffic lights intersection. I observe the dangerous situation of pedestrians darting across the road in the midst of heavy traffic going to the city and Tabuan Jaya,” she said.
Soo hopes the council would take pre-emptive measures to ensure road safety at all times.
