SAFETY A TOP PRIORITY FOR KESTURI
DUKE developers initiate additional measures for residents’ safety
 
Kuala Lumpur, 9 January – The first phase of the Duta-Ulu Kelang Expressway (DUKE) was officially opened today by Works Minister, Dato’ Ir. Mohd Zin bin Mohamed.  The early opening of the completed sections signifies the Concessionaire and Government’s effort in availing this long awaited expressway to the public in easing traffic congestion in the city. The remaining Duta link that consists of a 3.3 km stretch will be opened in April this year.
 
Konsortium Lebuhraya Utara-Timur (KL) Sdn Bhd (KESTURI) are the developers of the DUKE, the latest addition to the city’s traffic network which was recently opened to the public. The company recently met with resident representatives to discuss the measures that have been put in place in the form of pedestrian and motorcycle crossings constructed by KESTURI.
 
The pedestrian bridge connecting the two residential areas is already complete and in use, while the connecting motorcycle ramps leading up to the shared bridge will be finished by Chinese New Year, says the DUKE spokesperson and Project Director, Mr. SK Chua. However, upon closer assessment, KESTURI decided to take additional measures to ensure that residents truly have a peace of mind when crossing the DUKE.
 
”We’ve provided an alternative crossing for motorcyclists just north of the Sentul toll plaza,” says Mr. Chua. ”While the initial pedestrian bridge and connecting motorcycle ramps satisfy the prescribed guidelines, we’re concerned about the safety of pedestrians as they would need to share the overhead bridge with motorcycles – which could be dangerous if bridge traffic becomes heavy. The alternative route for motorcycles will hopefully ease the traffic on the bridge and provide more separation between pedestrians and vehicles.”
 
Also, as an additional safety precaution while awaiting the completion of the motorcycle ramps, KESTURI has put in place a temporary crossing specifically for schoolchildren, located nearby the toll plaza. Traffic wardens will be stationed at this crossing during peak periods to ensure the schoolchildren’s safety as well to help regulate traffic flow.