The Controversial Path of Petaling Jaya’s PJD Link Highway
The future of the Petaling Jaya Dispersal Link (PJD Link) hangs in balance as developer PJD Link (M) Sdn Bhd faces governmental pushback on the project’s progression. Despite the government’s recent decision to halt the RM4.4 billion highway project, the company remains optimistic about its viability and the substantial economic benefits it could bring.
Reevaluating the Highway’s Alignment
PJD Link is actively reviewing requests to modify the highway’s alignment, following the government’s announcement. The project, intended to better connect the north and south of Petaling Jaya, has been a topic of extensive planning and consultation, aiming to traverse major urban areas including Bandar Utama, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, and the bustling Petaling Jaya city centre.
Government Hesitations and Company Rebuttals
The unity government’s spokesperson, Fahmi Fadzil, indicated that the project’s cessation came after the developer failed to meet six out of eleven specific conditions imposed by the government. In response, PJD Link acknowledged these challenges but attributed the delays to the complex nature of the project preparations, which have taken longer than anticipated.
Economic and Employment Prospects
Despite these hurdles, the developer highlighted the project’s potential to generate significant economic output and employment opportunities. “It is projected to provide an estimated 12,000 jobs and generate RM31 billion in total economic output,” the company stated, underscoring the vast economic spillovers that the project could catalyze.
Engaging with Public and Government
PJD Link expressed a commitment to clearing up any misconceptions about the project and to continuing discussions with all stakeholders. The company is poised to work alongside both federal and state agencies to explore ways to make the highway project feasible for the people of Selangor and the broader Klang Valley area.
The Road Ahead
As the discussions evolve, the fate of the PJD Link remains uncertain. The project had initially received approval in principle from both the Cabinet and the state government, contingent on the successful completion of various impact assessments. However, the Selangor state government, led by menteri besar Amirudin Shari, has expressed dissatisfaction with the reports submitted, particularly the social impact assessment, leading to a reconsideration of the project’s approval.
The PJD Link highway has the potential to significantly alter the urban landscape of Petaling Jaya, promising improved connectivity and economic growth. However, it must first overcome the regulatory and approval challenges that have recently come to light. As this infrastructure saga continues, the community and potential stakeholders will undoubtedly keep a close watch on developments, hopeful for a resolution that aligns with the best interests of Petaling Jaya’s residents and the greater Klang Valley.
