Public safety is important in constructing the guide way for LRT Line - Prasarana

Prasarana Negara Berhad (Prasarana) reaffirms public safety is important and adopts the best techniques in constructing the guide way for the LRT Line Extension Project (LEP). Addressing public concerns on structures that are perceived to be “hanging” in the air above junctions and highways in the Klang Valley, Prasarana Project Development Division Group Director, Zulkifli Md Yusoff said though the structure appears incomplete, it is firmly secured and should not be a threat to the surrounding area. In the case where the structure needs to cross the New Klang Valley Expressway (NKVE) in Subang, a balance cantilever construction method is used to install the segmental box girders (SBGs) due to the extreme constraints in the working area. “Every time the SBG is erected, pre-stressing tendons which keep the segments together in place are installed and stressed. Once stressed, the SBGs are intact and safe,” Zulkifli explained. The SBGs are hoisted and assembled to form the guide way or track of the LEP. “In addition, all LEP-related construction activities are monitored and approved by the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) and the local authorities to ensure compliance of safety regulations and guidelines,” Zulkifli added. Zulkifli also said the technique adopted by the Prasarana contractors in building the guide way was among the best for areas with limited space such as the developed neighbourhood of Subang Jaya and USJ. “Launching works are carried out at night in high traffic areas as additional space is needed to transport, hoist, and assemble the SBGs that are made of precast concrete. As launching works could only be conducted at night, only limited SBGs could be hoisted and assembled daily. Nevertheless, the contractors would ensure that the hoisted SBGs are securely fastened to the launching girder before reopening the road for traffic flow before dawn breaks.