Residents protest prolonged quarry risks in Paya Jaras

A peaceful demonstration held in Taman Matang Jaya on January 31 highlighted growing frustration among residents who say they have endured prolonged environmental and safety risks linked to nearby quarry operations. Representing seven affected housing estates, including Taman Matang Jaya, Taman Impian Indah and Saujana Akasia, the residents united to call for urgent measures to address what they view as an increasingly unsafe living environment.

The gathering reflected a shared belief that long-standing issues have yet to be resolved despite repeated complaints and public discussions. Residents maintain that conditions in the area have deteriorated to a point where daily life is being disrupted and safety can no longer be taken for granted.

Mounting environmental and safety concerns

A direct assessment of conditions in Zon 20 points to risks that residents say have become difficult to manage. Among the most serious concerns is the danger posed by flying rock fragments from quarry activities. Several recent incidents have reportedly resulted in damage to rooftops and private property, heightening fears of potential injury and contributing to a constant sense of unease within the community.

Dust pollution is another persistent issue. Fine white dust from quarry operations and frequent heavy vehicle movement has blanketed homes and roads for years. Residents describe the accumulation as a long-term nuisance with potential health implications, particularly for children and the elderly. There are growing concerns that prolonged exposure may be linked to respiratory discomfort and other health issues, although residents continue to seek clearer assessments from relevant authorities.

Heavy lorries straining local infrastructure

The condition of local roads has become a visible symbol of the problem. Although weight limit signs indicate an 8-ton restriction, residents observe that quarry lorries far exceeding this limit regularly use residential routes. These vehicles, estimated to weigh between 20 and 40 tons, are believed to have accelerated road deterioration.

As a result, kampong roads have developed deep potholes, uneven surfaces and structural damage, making them increasingly unsafe for light vehicles and daily commuters. Residents say enforcement efforts have not kept pace with the scale of the problem, allowing further degradation and safety risks.

Renewed push for permanent solutions

The situation has been raised multiple times during State Assembly sittings, yet residents say a permanent solution remains elusive. The primary demand is the acceleration of a dedicated alternative road for quarry lorries, which would divert heavy machinery away from residential areas.

To underline their position, residents have submitted a formal petition to five quarry operators, signalling that they no longer wish to rely on a wait-and-see approach. They are calling for immediate action, including stricter enforcement of weight limits and improved safety measures.

For the residents of Paya Jaras, the issue is fundamentally about safety and quality of life. They argue that meaningful action is needed to ensure Selangor’s development does not come at the expense of community wellbeing.