The Majlis Perbandaran Kajang (MPKj) should explain the new location of the Bandar Sungai Long market which is smack in front of an Indah Water sewage treatment plant

Recently, the Chinese dailies reported that the new location for Bandar Sg Long morning and night markets would be in front of the sewage treatment plant. This despite the strong and unpleasant smell which wafts across the area each time the wind blows in the direction of the market.

The foul smell would intensify when the septic tanks at the plant are not functioning as normal.

According to Sin Chew Daily , the decision to relocate Bandar Sg Long's hawkers to the area in front of the sewage treatment plant was made by the MPKj on March 3 during a dialogue with the hawkers' association and a developer.

MPKj's decision to relocate the market is clearly irrational and inappropriate. The local authority should explain why it allowed the Bandar Sg Long market to be relocated to the front of the Indah Water sewage treatment plant.

Why are the MPKj local councilors unaccountable for and so unresponsive towards the basic welfare and convenience of the people? Is it because they are appointed and not elected?

It is time for Housing and Local Government Minister Ong Ka Ting to direct the MPKj to do the right thing.

When welcoming the call by Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi to local authorities to allow more stalls to be set up to alleviate poverty in urban areas, Ong had said that it was not enough for local authorities to merely provide a place for small traders and hawkers.

He also said that they must ensure that the area is strategically located, has adequate parking space and that cleanliness is maintained. None of these criteria has been fulfilled with respect to the Bandar Sg Long market.