Residents in Taman Ipoh Timur, commonly known as Ipoh Garden East, are expressing growing concerns over the frequent accidents occurring on Jalan Perajurit, especially at the junction with Persiaran Perajurit 3. This road, a key thoroughfare for locals, connects residential areas such as Taman Kaya, Taman Kemuncak, and Taman Perak, and also leads to other neighbourhoods in Bercham, Tambun, and Sunway City Ipoh.
According to The Star, the accidents are caused by inadequate speed bumps, low dividers, speeding, and insufficient road signage. A long-time resident highlighted that this issue has persisted for over 15 years, noting that the junction near a coffee shop on Persiaran Perajurit 3 is particularly problematic. Motorcyclists often cut across vehicles, contributing to daily accidents, sometimes multiple times a day.
Residents are also frustrated by motorists who park illegally near the hawker stalls at the junction, exacerbating the traffic situation. Despite the availability of parking behind the shophouses, many drivers refuse to use them.
During a town hall meeting organised by the Ipoh City Council (MBI), other residents echoed these concerns. A housewife recounted her own near-miss due to reckless motorcyclists. Another resident since 1992, emphasised the severity of the situation, noting numerous unreported accidents and the unbearable noise from motorbikes at night. He suggested raising the road’s dividers and adding reflective signage to enhance visibility and safety.
In response to the residents’ concerns, MBI has proposed installing two traffic lights—one at the Persiaran Perajurit 3 junction and another at Laluan Perajurit 1—and converting several roads into one-way streets to improve traffic flow. While some believe these measures will help, others, like the president of the Taman Kaya Residents Association, argue that these are only temporary solutions. He called for a long-term plan, especially with upcoming developments in the area, including a university, a shopping centre, and a hospital, which are expected to increase traffic significantly.
Not all residents agree with the traffic light proposal. A private tutor expressed concerns that the lights would cause longer queues and potentially increase the risk of accidents as drivers might rush to avoid getting stuck in traffic. A retiree suggested that making Jalan Perajurit a one-way street would be a more effective solution.
Ipoh Timur MP Howard Lee noted that 84% of residents supported installing two traffic lights, while 54% backed the one-way street system. He acknowledged that the area’s traffic system must evolve to accommodate increased traffic. MBI secretary Ahmad Munir Ishak promised that the council would conduct a thorough study, incorporating residents’ feedback before implementing any changes. The council also plans to create an additional 50 parking bays to address parking shortages near the shophouses.
Final decisions will be made after a detailed study is completed, with suggestions to be presented to residents in three months.
