When navigating Kuala Lumpur, especially for those who work in the area, walking is often part of the routine. However, a recent Twitter post by @KLMetroscape shed light on what could be described as the most frustrating street crossing in KL. The user analyzed the red light phases for pedestrians at two traffic lights, revealing some concerning findings.
Yesterday I analyzed the red light phases for pedestrians at 2 traffic lights. The results are sobering, to say the least. The crossing at Jalan TAR never turns green. This feels like some wicked prank of DBKL. Pedestrians are the absolute lowest caste in KL! Just like bicycles pic.twitter.com/QgzzlzGkXW
— KL Metroscape (@KLMetroscape) January 31, 2024
At the crossing on Jalan TAR, pedestrians never seem to get a green light. This situation feels almost like a cruel joke orchestrated by DBKL. The user expressed frustration, likening pedestrians to the lowest caste in KL, along with bicycles. The accompanying video showcased two different street crossing locations: Persiaran KLCC and Jalan TAR.
Both crossings are heavily used, especially during rush hour. Typically, red light phases for pedestrians should last no longer than 60 to 90 seconds to prevent impatience and risky behaviour like jaywalking. At Persiaran KLCC, the user observed 49 pedestrians waiting for the green light while approximately 85 cars passed the crossing.
Assuming an average of 100 people in those cars, it's perplexing why pedestrians are subjected to a green phase almost ten times longer. Meanwhile, at Jalan TAR, the green light never seemed to appear. The user waited for a staggering 15 minutes, prompting netizens to voice their frustrations.
Some shared similar experiences at different locations, tagging DBKL in hopes of sparking action. One comment highlighted the poor timing, location, and layout of crossings on Jalan TAR, which discourages pedestrians in the heart of the city. Others echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the need for improvements to pedestrian infrastructure.