Gombak Residents Affected By ECRL-Related Flooding To Be Temporarily Relocated - MB Amirudin

SHAH ALAM, Oct 21 (Bernama) -- Residents of 21 houses in Kampung Sungai Chinchin, Gombak, affected by flooding due to the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) project will be temporarily relocated to rented homes, said Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shaari.

He said the costs would be borne by the project owner, Malaysia Rail Link Sdn Bhd (MRL).

This was agreed upon following a special meeting involving the Gombak District Officer, Selayang Municipal Council, MRL and representatives of Sungai Chinchin residents yesterday.

He said there has been an increase in the frequency of flash floods, noise and air pollution, and burst pipes which caused concern and affected the quality of life for residents of Sungai Chinchin and North Gombak.

"Several decisions were made and I have directed that immediate action be taken, including the temporary relocation of residents of 21 houses affected by flooding, as they are in low-lying areas at risk of flooding throughout the construction period,” he said in a Facebook post today.

For the long term, Amirudin, who is also the Member of Parliament for Gombak, said a retention pond will be built to address the flash flood issue in the area.

MRL has also agreed to bear the cost of repairing damage to houses caused by blasting activities and the main roads that were affected.

He said MRL has acknowledged and agreed to halt work in the area on Sundays and certain days, such as examination days.

"Insya-Allah, the Gombak Parliamentary Office will cooperate with all parties, including residents and MRL, to ensure the smooth progress of the ECRL construction without compromising the well-being of the residents," he said.

The ECRL, expected to begin operations in 2027, will connect the East Coast with the West Coast, spanning 20 stations across four states -- Kelantan, Terengganu, Pahang and Selangor.

-- BERNAMA