Batang Kali, located in Hulu Selangor and close to the junction leading to Genting Highlands, is described by residents as a “RnR town” as it serves as a transit point for travellers to the northern states or to Terengganu and Kelantan.
Riduan Adnan, the manager of a hotel in Batang Kali, said the town is a popular transit point for those who want to go for a holiday to Genting Highlands, but with a limited budget.
“Many choose to stop by and stay here because of its close distance to Genting Highlands, which is about half an hour’s drive. Food prices are also cheaper,” Riduan, who has been staying in Batang Kali since 2012, told Bernama.
The facilities in Batang Kali include petrol stations, banks, budget hotels, fast food outlets and restaurants that offer affordable local dishes.
Riduan said the effect of the road closure may not be felt yet, but will likely lead to the closure of many businesses.
On Tuesday, works ministry secretary-general Wan Ahmad Uzir Wan Sulaiman was reported as saying that the Batang Kali-Genting Highlands road will be closed for a year for slope rehabilitation works.
Commuters were advised to use alternative routes via Jalan Batang Kali-Ulu Yam up to Jalan Ulu Yam-Batu Caves or through the Kuala Lumpur-Ipoh main route.
Restaurant owner Yasin Abu Bakar also expressed concern over likely effects of the long road closure.
He hoped the government will come up with some kind of solution to help businesses overcome their losses.
Those working in Genting Highlands said the alternative road to Genting Highlands, stretching 90km, will take up 90 minutes’ travelling time compared with about 30 minutes previously.
One Facebook user, Nurul Amyra, said she will have to go through Gombak to go to Genting Highlands to work.
Another, Siti Noor Rahimaniza, suggested that the authorities allow workers at the resort to continue to use the Batang Kali-Genting Highlands road.
“Open the road for Genting staff only,” she said. “Get the employer to write a letter and the police to set up a checkpoint at the Batang Kali junction. Do it like during the MCO.”
Residents also hope that light vehicles, such as motorcycles, will be allowed to use the road.
Batang Kali assemblyman Harumaini Omar told Bernama he hoped to meet authorities such as the district office, public works department, police, fire and rescue department, and the Hulu Selangor municipal council to discuss the matter.