Tragedy strikes KL city centre as tree fall claims one life

A sudden downpour on May 7th, 2024, turned tragedy in Kuala Lumpur city centre as a large tree toppled onto Jalan Sultan Ismail.

The incident, which occurred around 2:30 pm, resulted in one fatality and multiple injuries, disrupting traffic and the nearby monorail service.

Emergency response manages tragedy

The Kuala Lumpur Fire and Rescue Department (KLFRD) responded swiftly to the scene, deploying 27 firefighters, four fire engines, and four emergency medical rescue service vehicles.

“Upon arrival, firefighters found 17 vehicles pinned under the fallen tree,” stated M. Fatta M. Amin, assistant director (operations) for KLFRD.

“The KL Monorail line was also blocked.”

The rescue efforts proved critical, with two individuals trapped in their vehicles.

“Tragically, one of the victims, a 47-year-old man, was pronounced dead at the scene,” reported Amin.

“The other victim, a 26-year-old man, suffered multiple injuries and was transferred to paramedics for medical attention.”

Interagency collaboration ensures public safety

The response wasn’t limited to the KLFRD. Other vital agencies, including the Civil Defence Force, Royal Malaysia Police, and Ministry of Health, were also present at the scene.

This collaboration ensured a comprehensive response that prioritised public safety and minimised disruption.

Dr. Zaliha binti Mustafa, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories), and Datuk Seri PMgr Sr Hj. Kamarulzaman bin Mat Salleh, Mayor of Kuala Lumpur, visited the scene.

Their presence underscored the seriousness of the incident and the commitment to a swift resolution.

The heavy rains that caused the tree fall also led to localized flooding in several areas of Kuala Lumpur.

These included Pahang Road, Genting Klang Road near Tunku Abdul Rahman University and near Shell station, and Danau Kota Road.

Fortunately, the water subsided within a short period, ranging from 25 to 35 minutes in those areas.

The Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) continues to monitor the situation and urges the public to exercise caution during heavy rain.

Motorists are advised to be aware of potential delays and road closures in the wake of this tragic event.