They said the PJD Link would complicate their daily lives, which at present was comfortable due to the easy access to the Jaya Shopping Centre, Jaya 33, Millennium Square and hospitals.
Section 14 Resident’s Association chairman Selva Sugumaran said if the highway was approved, about 40 houses in the neighbourhood would have to be acquired by the developer.
“Many residents told me that any sum offered is inadequate to compensate the loss of their way of life.
“Those who live in Section 14 can vouch for this. The comfort here is beyond anything in PJ and Selangor.”
He also pointed out that the neighbourhood was surrounded by various amenities, making it ideal for retirees who made up about 80 per cent of the total population in Section 14.
“We find this an ideal place for the elderly to stay as hospitals, supermarkets and government facilities are nearby.
“These are retirees who have paid up their bank loans and want to enjoy their golden years without the hindrance of elevated highways.”
Selva, who is also a lawyer, said if the proposal was approved, the construction would bring about severe noise and air pollution, which could pose a hazard to its elderly residents.
Peter Hoo, a 65-year-old retiree, told FMT he was worried about such matters when construction begins.
“I live just across the road. Don’t forget about the noise and dust. I’m too old for this.”
Siti, a 70-year-old retiree who has lived in Section 14 for more than 40 years, said relocating was completely out of the question, and cited her age as the main factor.
“I have stayed here since the 1970s. I’m old and it’s hard to relocate. Please be considerate, forcing old residents to move into a new place is not nice.”
Mervin, a 73-year-old retiree, also voiced his concern over the proposed highway, saying that many people would be affected.
“I have stayed here since the 1960s and I don’t want to move out from here. It’s not about the money. It’s about the place where you have lived for decades.”
Last week, Putrajaya confirmed that Petaling Jaya Dispersal Link Holdings (PJD Link) had submitted a proposal to construct a 34.3km dual-carriage expressway with four lanes and eight interchanges/ramps, similar to the axed Kinrara-Damansara Expressway (Kidex).