River trail project to be expanded, says Nik Nazmi

 

The Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change Ministry has allocated RM2.5 million to begin further construction of the river walking trail project to be completed by the end of 2023.

This was revealed by its minister, Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad, who, along with Bukit Gasing assemblyperson Rajiv Rishyakaran, paid a site visit to the area today.

According to Nik Nazmi, the government planned the development as a measure to prevent pollution through a nature-based solution.

Nik Nazmi and Rajiv walked along the completed stretch of 700m from Petaling Jaya's Section 14 to Section 19, which cost RM409,000.

"We have already finished the project for 700m (for the Pengchala River) but Rajiv asked us to expand the project to Kuala Lumpur," said the engineer in charge of the project Mohd Kamal Mustafa.

Responding to this, Nik Nazmi said Rajiv had requested that the trail be expanded on both sides of the river along the Pengchala River to Kuala Lumpur.

"But I think my ministry can do one side first until Kuala Lumpur and then we can see the outcome," said Nik Nazmi during a press conference.

He also said the project is a great opportunity to spread environmental awareness so that people would be more alert to pollution if it occurs.

The walking trail is accessible to the public for recreational activities such as picnics, jogging and fishing.

“If everyone can help to clean the Klang river, we can make it an alternative water resource so that we no longer have to depend on Sungai Selangor,” said Nik Nazmi

According to Rajiv, the extent of the shade provided for the public is still being discussed.

"We are researching for suitable trees to provide shade without a lot of maintenance," he said.

However, there is no plan to put lighting along the walking trail. - Mkini