MBPJ Temporarily Stops 26-Storey Condo Project in Damansara Perdana Over Slope Risks
PETALING JAYA: Majlis Bandaraya Petaling Jaya (MBPJ) has ordered a temporary suspension of construction works involving a 26-storey condominium project near Empire Residence following concerns over hillslope stability in the area.
The directive came after residents complained about mud and water flow during heavy rainfall, which they alleged originated from the project’s construction site.
Damansara Member of Parliament Gobind Singh Deo said nearby residents also questioned the safety of the hillslope as parts of the land were believed to fall under Class 3 and Class 4 slope categories.
According to him, development on Class 3 slopes may still be permitted provided strict safety measures are enforced, including retaining structures and comprehensive geotechnical assessments.
However, he explained that Class 4 slopes, which involve steeper gradients, are generally not approved for permanent construction because they are categorised as high-risk areas.
“There are concerns regarding the safety of the slope because portions of the area are believed to fall under Class 3 and Class 4 categories,” he said after inspecting the site together with MBPJ engineering officials and related stakeholders.
Gobind Singh Deo said MBPJ had confirmed that the developer previously obtained all required approvals before construction began.
Nevertheless, he said the temporary stop-work order was issued following discussions involving Bukit Lanjan assemblyman Pua Pei Ling and several other stakeholders.
The developer and its consultants have now been given two weeks to submit a detailed report, including slope stabilisation proposals and additional safety mitigation plans.
Among the immediate actions ordered are debris removal, covering exposed slope areas and upgrading drainage systems to better manage water flow during heavy rain.
According to Gobind, all construction activities have been halted temporarily pending technical reviews and expert safety assessments.
Meanwhile, Joint Management Body secretary of Empire Residence, Simon Ng said residents were worried about possible soil movement and falling trees from the nearby hillslope behind their homes.
He claimed buyers were initially informed that the land behind Empire Residence would only be developed with low-rise residential projects.
However, the development plan was later revised into a three-block condominium project consisting of 979 residential units across 26 storeys.
According to Simon Ng, residents have filed a judicial review application against MBPJ and the developer, with the case scheduled to be heard at the Shah Alam High Court on August 14.
He also claimed that an independent study commissioned by residents found that more than 60 per cent of the hillslope area falls under Class 3 and Class 4 classifications.
Apart from slope safety concerns, nearby residents have also voiced worries about possible traffic congestion and additional safety risks should the project proceed.
-wilayah.com.my
