Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) is investigating the death of a man after a tree fell on Jalan Tun Razak with the help of arborists.
kuala lumpur: Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) is conducting a detailed technical investigation to determine the cause of a tree falling incident on Jalan Tun Razak which took the life of one person last night.
DBKL said the investigation, jointly conducted with the Malaysian Society of Arborists, included assessment of the tree’s physical condition, root structure, soil conditions, environmental factors as well as records of inspection, maintenance and previous complaints related to the tree and its location.
“DBKL expresses its condolences to the family of the victim and hopes that those involved will receive the necessary treatment and support. DBKL will cooperate fully with the police and relevant agencies in completing the investigation,” it said in a statement tonight.
Commenting on the incident, DBKL said an emergency team was immediately deployed to the location after receiving the report at 10.14 pm to clear trees and obstructions, and the road was reopened at 1.27 pm.
Based on records, the age of the Peltophorum pterocarpum (Yellow Flame) tree was estimated to be 19 years, and it was last inspected and maintained on May 15.
According to the statement, the appointed contractor had earlier carried out crown reduction work based on the report of a certified arborist.
“As an immediate measure, DBKL has started inspecting mature trees and trees at potential risk on all major roads in Kuala Lumpur, especially in areas with high traffic and public movement.”
The initial inspection included trees along Jalan Ampang, Jalan Sultan Ismail, Jalan Raja Laut, Jalan Datuk Keramat as well as parts of Jalan Tun Razak. The inspection is expected to be completed within 10 weeks involving eight teams including five arborists.
As a medium-term preventive measure, DBKL is awaiting SIRIM approval for the use of 400 tree sensors to be installed in phases at high-risk locations.
DBKL said the sensors will monitor the condition of the trees and provide preliminary readings on changes that could affect sustainability, including soil conditions, moisture levels, structural movement and the impact of adverse weather such as heavy rains and floods.
The first phase of the installation is expected to cover four prime locations: Jalan Bangsar, Dataran Merdeka, Jalan Ampang and Jalan Raja Chulan.
