KOTA KINABALU: Kampung Peringatan villagers have urged the state government to speed up the repair work of a barricade at the railway crossing near the Petagas Memorial Monument here.
This is following yesterday’s train-car collision at Jalan Lapangan Terbang Antarabangsa Kota Kinabalu (KKIA), which claimed the life of a car passenger.
Based on NSTP’s observation, the barrier bar at the railway area where the accident occurred was not functioning, raising concerns among villagers crossing the railway track.
Villager Abdul Halim Abdul Karim, 30, who lived nearby, said the barricade had not been functioning for about five months.
“We are not sure what the problem is, but such situation poses danger to road users.
“By right, if there is any damage it should be repaired immediately or there should at least be a post with a guard to look after safety of road users in the area.
“Even prior to yesterday’s incident, there have been several (collision) cases involving train and vehicles or motorcycles but there were no fatalities,” he said.
In the 1.05pm accident, Mohd Amir Khairi Abdul Ghani, 20, and Daniel Shafwan Omar, 22, sustained serious injuries when the Proton Preve car they were traveling in collided with incoming train and was dragged for 100 metres.
Daniel Shafwan later succumbed to his injuries.
Another villager Fatimah Ismail, 65, also stressed the authority should immediately repair the barrier bar to ensure the safety of residents and outsiders who come to visit the Memorial Monument.
“Just like yesterday, the heavy rain and malfunction barrier bar will pose danger to the people.
“The authorities need to act quick (in carrying out repair work) to avoid similar incident from happening,” she said.