By Nas Norziela Nasbah
AMPANG JAYA, Feb 24 — The state government is following the proper procedures in managing the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) project in Sungai Chinchin, said Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari.
He said it is up to the residents if they want to file a court injunction to halt the project’s construction.
“The residents have the right to do so, but we have followed the correct procedures, some of which have been in place since the last general elections,” Amirudin said after inaugurating the Agro Bandar Melon Plantation programme in Pandan Jaya today.
He was responding to the intention of the residents of 13 villages and settlements in Gombak Utara, who are seeking to file a court injunction to stop the construction of the ECRL Sungai Chinchin project.
Amirudin described those who raised the issue as opportunistic troublemakers trying to create issues.
“They are outsiders. I will discuss this with the residents, but if they want to take an injunction, it is their right, and they can proceed.
“However, we will try to assist because the state government has a responsibility to complete this project as best as possible since it benefits the economy,” he said.
Amirudin also said the project needs to continue according to the set rules to ensure there are no delays.
“Actually, the previous state government did not agree with the northern route and wanted the southern route. However, it compromised on the northern route because if not, the government would have to bear a long-term debt.
“More debt will be incurred if it is further delayed,” he said, adding the replacement land in Sungai Chinchin involving part of the reserve land taken for the ECRL route is also in progress.
“This includes replacement land around the area, which needs to be managed through endowment methods. I am arranging discussions to protect the area’s relevant land and traditional burial grounds,” he said.
