By: EDDY N. S. HOH
IT is increasingly evident that the urban landscape is taking a further beating as a result of high density development which is now reaching a tipping point in many up-coming townships.
Many may argue that high density developments are approved projects complying with all the required regulations. But shouldn’t there be some form of check and balance before final approval, taking into consideration such things as the traffic situation and environmental concerns?
For example, environmental issues in some new developments may seem minor at first but turn out to be serious over time. The proposed TNB station at Ara Damansara, Selangor is a case in point. The core issue of concern among the affected residents and their loved ones is environmental contamination and pollution.
Those who are involved in the project would have reassured the residents that they are doing the right thing. But would they have considered the price to pay in terms of potential radioactive exposure and health hazards?
We have heard that not all scientific studies and investigations can be relied upon, as some could be based on scientific content not within the local context. We can relate to the plight of the people affected by the problems of bauxite mining in Pahang. Obviously, for them the reality is hard to swallow and we cannot blame them for trying to stop the mining activities in their area.
The regulatory authorities must take a neutral stand when laying down strict criteria for development projects. Is that too much to ask?
