Bandar Utama residents raise safety concerns over MBPJ vehicle storage facility

More than 160 residents of Bandar Utama have signed a petition opposing the construction of a Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ) vehicle storage depot in their neighbourhood, raising concerns over environmental, safety and public health risks while calling for greater transparency in local decision-making.

The protest follows the discovery that a previously cleared nursery site had been fenced off and fitted with container cabins and security gates for the storage of damaged and abandoned vehicles. Residents alleged that the project proceeded without prior notification or consultation with the surrounding community.

Led by Bomba Komuniti Bandar Utama (BKBU), residents submitted a formal protest letter and an official complaint through the Public Complaints Management System (SISPAA) on July 6. They are seeking an urgent site meeting with MBPJ and other relevant authorities to discuss the project’s rationale, safety measures and potential alternatives.

Residents cite environmental and safety concerns

Residents have expressed concern over what they describe as significant Environment, Safety and Health (ESH) risks associated with the proposed depot.

Among their primary concerns is the depot’s location directly beneath a Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) high-voltage transmission line, which they believe could pose fire and electrical hazards, particularly if damaged vehicles or flammable materials are stored at the site.

They also warned that leaking engine oil, fuel and other automotive fluids from abandoned vehicles could contaminate nearby drainage systems and the surrounding environment if not properly managed.

Public health has emerged as another key issue, with residents fearing that stagnant rainwater collecting inside damaged vehicles and discarded tyres could create breeding grounds for Aedes mosquitoes. They noted that the area has already experienced dengue-related concerns and argued that the depot could increase the risk if adequate preventive measures are not implemented.

Calls grow for greater community engagement

Opposition to the project gained further momentum during a community meeting on July 19, which was attended by former Selangor executive councillor for local government Ronnie Liu, as well as former MBPJ councillors Richard Yeoh and Michael Soon.

Residents said the dispute reflects a broader challenge in urban governance, arguing that infrastructure projects affecting residential communities should involve early engagement with stakeholders before implementation begins. They contend that stronger communication between municipal councils and local communities could help prevent misunderstandings and build public confidence.

The community has also pointed to a previously proposed vehicle depot in SS4, Kelana Jaya, which was withdrawn following public objections and discussions with stakeholders. They are urging authorities to provide Bandar Utama residents with a similar opportunity for consultation before the project proceeds further.

To strengthen community representation, BKBU is in the process of becoming an officially recognised Kawasan Rukun Tetangga (KRT), a move residents say will enhance neighbourhood participation and support continued engagement with local authorities on issues affecting the community.