By Aida Aziz
IPOH: The presence of a large tree, more than 40 years old, by the roadside near Jalan Bunga Raya, New Pasir Puteh (near Laluan Bunga Saroja), has put a row of houses in danger.
Its branches and twigs have already extended over the fences and could fall onto the properties at any time.
Balan Nair, a resident there, claimed he has repeatedly requested the authorities to trim the large tree, but no action has been taken to date.
He said that over the past three years, several phone calls were made to the local authorities (PBT), but they have led to no results.
What’s more worrying is that the tree’s branches have already crossed over the power lines, and if heavy rain occurs, they could fall and cause a power outage.
“The last time this tree was trimmed was maybe five years ago, and now it has spread into our residential area.
“When it rains, we are very worried because it could fall on our rooftops, including the power and telecommunication cables.
“I’ve lodged many complaints here and there, but still, no action has been taken. Please, help us resolve this problem,” he told Ipoh Echo/Peraktastic.
He also raised the issue of an unoccupied house in the same row, which has become overgrown with weeds and bushes.
Wild animals such as monitor lizards and venomous snakes have entered the residential area several times.
“The house next to mine is already overgrown with plants and bushes because its owner passed away a few years ago.
“Initially, the heirs took care of it, but unfortunately, it has been neglected for the last year or so.
“I’m afraid that house will become a nesting ground for venomous animals, posing a danger to the residents. Recently, a cobra even entered the compound of our house” he said.
Balan hopes that the relevant authorities, especially the Ipoh City Council (MBI), will act promptly to resolve the tree and abandoned house issues.
“Please help us as residents — we no longer know who else to turn to. We hope this matter can be resolved soon for the safety of everyone here,” he added.
