GOING to work should be a simple trip — but not on Jalan Pahang. In the case of Kew, a tailor, it is a life-threatening experience. To get to his store at Jalan Pahang, Kew has to cross a slip road that leads to the Duke Highway. “I go through this daily,” said Kew.

“As soon as I see the road is clear, I will dash across. But I'm old and can’t run fast,” he said. Even children attending the nearby SK Setapak, SJK (C) Chung Hwa and SMK Bandar Baru Sentul are also forced to cross dangerously. Yesterday, officials from City Hall’s Urban Transport Department and Duke Expressway visited the site. Also present was Wangsa Maju Barisan Nasional chairman Datuk Yew Teong.

According to City Hall Urban Transport Department deputy director Abdul Hamid Surip a zebra crossing on a raised pavement will be constructed across the road to solve the problem. “The raised pavement will ensure that motorists stop for pedestrians to cross,” said Abdul Hamid. He expects the crossing to be ready within a month or two.

Duke Expressway general manager Ong Kheng Boon said the request was reasonable and his company was more than willing to comply. “When it concerns people’s safety, we will always listen,” said Ong. The zebra crossing will be constructed with an access ramp to enable those on wheelchairs to cross as well.