DBKL says Sentul hawkers not being evicted, will return to site after RM1.6m upgrade completes in October

DBKL Allays Fears Over Sentul Hawker Eviction, Promises Upgraded Facilities by October

Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) has sought to reassure traders and residents that the demolition of hawker structures opposite Mini UTC Sentul was part of a redevelopment project to upgrade the area, and not a permanent closure of hawker businesses there. This move comes after recent social media attention was drawn to the demolition works, sparking concerns among the community.

Background & Context

The hawker site at Jalan 3/48A opposite Mini UTC Sentul has served the local community for almost 30 years, remaining a popular trading spot for residents in the surrounding area. With 33 hawker structures, 20 of which are still actively operating, the site has become an integral part of the community's daily life.

The redevelopment project aims to address the site's long-standing infrastructure issues, including poor waste management systems and outdated facilities. The project's focus on upgrading the existing infrastructure and providing better amenities for traders and customers alike has been welcomed by the community, who have been eagerly awaiting improvements to the site.

Key Details

DBKL records show that the area will undergo a comprehensive upgrade, with the existing structures being replaced by 20 new units complete with essential facilities such as water and electricity supply, covered dining areas, improved lighting, hand-washing facilities, and upgraded drainage infrastructure. The project's total cost is estimated at RM1.6 million, with the redevelopment expected to be completed within three months.

Kuala Lumpur Mayor Datuk Fadlun Mak Ujud emphasized that the demolition works are part of a well-planned redevelopment project, initiated under the Lestari Niaga programme. The programme involved discussions and engagement sessions with traders and stakeholders to obtain views and feedback on the proposed redevelopment. Fadlun noted that the project's planning phase began earlier, ensuring that all parties were consulted and informed throughout the process.

"The project was planned well in advance under the Lestari Niaga programme. A series of discussions were held before an engagement session with hawkers and stakeholders took place on February 10 this year to obtain views and feedback on the proposed redevelopment," Fadlun explained.

Unlike previous redevelopment projects, the affected hawkers will not be relocated to a temporary site while construction is underway. Instead, eligible traders will receive direct financial assistance during the closure period. DBKL will provide RM1,500 a month, amounting to RM4,500 over the three-month period, to support the traders during this time.

What Experts Say

While the redevelopment project aims to address the site's long-standing infrastructure issues, experts point out that it also presents an opportunity for the city to implement sustainable and eco-friendly practices. "The redevelopment project offers a chance for DBKL to integrate green technologies and sustainable practices into the new facilities, ultimately reducing the site's environmental footprint," said Dr. Tan, a local urban planning expert.

Key Takeaways

• DBKL's redevelopment project aims to upgrade the existing hawker facilities at Jalan 3/48A opposite Mini UTC Sentul.
• The project involves replacing the existing structures with 20 new units, complete with essential facilities and improved amenities.
• The redevelopment is expected to be completed within three months, with the upgraded facilities scheduled to reopen in October.
• Eligible traders will receive direct financial assistance during the closure period, with DBKL providing RM1,500 a month for three months.

What This Means For You

The redevelopment project at Jalan 3/48A opposite Mini UTC Sentul serves as a prime example of how urban planning can be used to improve the lives of traders and residents alike. By addressing the site's long-standing infrastructure issues and providing better amenities for traders and customers, DBKL is working towards creating a more sustainable and livable city.

As the project nears completion, residents and traders can look forward to enjoying improved facilities and a better trading experience. For those interested in supporting local businesses, the redevelopment project presents an opportunity to explore and discover new trading spots in the area.

As DBKL continues to work towards creating a more vibrant and sustainable city, it is essential to stay informed about the latest developments and initiatives. By doing so, residents and traders can stay ahead of the curve and be a part of shaping the city's future.