JKR should tackle pothole issue without concessionaires - Former MP
'JKR and councils can work together for effective solutions'
SHAH ALAM: Former Klang MP Charles Santiago has urged for a drastic shift in tackling Malaysia's persistent pothole problem, particularly in Klang.
Citing the Klang's unique challenges - heavy port traffic and clay soil composition - Charles argued that current practices by the Public Works Department (JKR) fall short.
"Klang, being a port town, encounters unique challenges due to heavy traffic from Port Klang, putting a strain on the roads.
"The clay soil composition exacerbates the problem, causing potholes to appear elsewhere when holes are dug in one area.
"Poor maintenance practices add to the issue across the country," he told Sinar Daily in an interview recently.
Charles stressed that the problem of potholes extends beyond Klang and is a nationwide concern.
He identified factors like weather conditions, inadequate road maintenance practices, and restrictions in the concession agreement as contributors to the ongoing problem.
The former MP has consistently raised concerns about the issue, advocating for a review of the existing concession agreement to enable more effective pothole repairs.
"If I were in government, I would propose a different approach to pothole repair, one that does not rely on concession agreements.
"I suggest empowering the JKR to establish its own dedicated unit with sufficient funding for prompt pothole resolution.
"The current use of concessionaires under restrictive agreements limits repair effectiveness, often leading to recurring issues within weeks.
"The perception gains credibility due to the persistent nature of the problem, prompting a closer examination of the factors contributing to the ongoing road-related challenges," he added.
To address corruption concerns, Charles supported a streamlined approach, allowing the JKR to handle the task directly, eliminating middlemen and subcontractors.
This ensures more transparent and effective fund utilisation, either through direct JKR involvement or collaboration with local councils.
"During my tenure as MP of Klang, I encountered road maintenance issues, complicated by various roads falling under different jurisdictions. Learning about JKR's concession agreement, which limited pothole repairs, led me to advocate for change.
"I raised this concern in parliament, proposing that JKR establish its own unit for comprehensive pothole addressing and effective road maintenance," Charles said.
