By Danial Dzulkifly
SELAYANG, Jan 25 — Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari said the proposed construction of an escalator leading to the Sri Subramaniar Swamy Temple compound at Batu Caves aims to alleviate congestion, save time, and attract more tourists.
The state government has given preliminary approval for the escalator, as proposed by the Batu Caves Hindu Temple Management; however, a comprehensive assessment from the Technical Committee for the Development of Environmentally Sensitive Areas is required before final approval can be granted.
“The state government agrees, fundamentally, because we provide facilities to the residents here, which could help them save time. Consequently, I believe the congestion will also decrease, potentially attracting more tourists.
“But we will not compromise on safety. So, we are awaiting a report from the Technical Committee for the Development of Environmentally Sensitive Areas since the structure’s basic foundation here consists of limestone, or limestone hills.
“There are certain conditions which must be met for construction in this area, to ensure safety. If the escalator is approved, the Land and District Office is available anytime to grant construction permission,’’ he said during a press conference at the state-level Thaipusam celebration in Batu Caves yesterday night.
Amirudin’s remarks come in response to the temple management’s suggestion for an escalator as an alternative to the 272 steps, providing convenience for both devotees and visitors.
The Gombak MP also clarified that the funds to build the escalator would be borne by the temple but reiterated that the state government would provide assistance to ensure proper due diligence and safety assessment.
