Tapah traders call for return of 2-way traffic system to ease congestion

Tapah traders call for return of 2-way traffic system to ease congestion

TAPAH: Traders in Tapah have called for a return of the two-way traffic system in the town, saying the switch to a one-way system has caused significant losses and worsened congestion, including in Ayer Kuning.

Afendi Salem, 62, said the changes implemented by the public works department (JKR) in August last year had made things more difficult for traders.

He said the shift had caused a drastic drop in the number of customers, by more than 50%.

“Previously, I could make over RM200 a day selling banana fritters, sometimes even up to RM400. But since the one-way system was introduced, I have barely managed to earn RM80 to RM100 a day.

He said the situation worsened during Ramadan, when he could only operate for four days a week due to the lack of customers.

“We’re not selling banana fritters and fried snacks to get rich, just to put food on the table. With the rising cost of living, I had to dip into my savings to get through Ramadan,” he added.

Another trader, Suhaimi Din, shared a similar experience.

Suhaimi, 49, said that at one point during Ramadan, he had earned as little as RM6 a day selling sugarcane juice.

“Before the road changes, I could sell nearly two tonnes of sugarcane juice in one month. This year, I couldn’t even finish half a tonne because people can’t stop their cars,” he said.

He added that many drivers used Tapah as a shortcut between Ipoh and Cameron Highlands, compounding the congestion.

“We’re asking the authorities to reconsider and restore the two-way system. Otherwise, Tapah risks becoming a ghost town,” he said.

Streetlights, affordable housing needed

Residents also urged the future Ayer Kuning assemblyman to address the lack of streetlights between Tapah and Teluk Intan, ahead of the by-election on April 26.

“The area is pitch dark. We don’t care who wins, as long as they solve the issue of street lighting,” said Zalimi Mat Isa, 49.

Vikram, 29, said he hoped the new representative would create more job opportunities for young people.

He added that the infrastructure at the local markets should be upgraded and the frequent power outages addressed, alongside improvements to bus services, telecommunications coverage, and banking access.

S Subammah, 68, expressed hope for more low-cost housing for the Indian community.

“I hope they can build affordable homes for Indians in Tapah and Ayer Kuning. I applied before but was told there were no allocations. I’ve been forced to rent for decades,” she said.