KUALA LUMPUR: An investigation is being carried out on the soil stability of Ulu Klang, Ampang and Wangsa Maju to the northeast of the Federal capital where many landslides have occurred in recent years. 

Natural Resources and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Azmi Khalid said the Cabinet had instructed that investigations be carried out because of the frequent landslides there. 

“It all started with Highland Towers but over the last few years, the number of landslides in Bukit Ampang, Bukit Antarabangsa and Bukit Perdana has been frequent and the trend is worrying,” he said yesterday.

Azmi: Did not think that rain could have caused Monday’s landslide

He was commenting on the landslide near four blocks of low-cost flats in Section 10, Wangsa Maju, on Monday which forced the evacuation of 140 people.  

Azmi said once the investigation was completed, the Government would be able to advise the state government and local councils on the do’s and don’ts in developing the area. 

He said information about soil stability and sensitivity was needed by the authorities because most of the area would be developed. 

“Most of the land in these areas are already in private hands and will be developed. The developers need to be told what they can and cannot do.”  

Azmi said the investigation, which was being conducted by the Works Ministry, was started three months ago.  

“I will meet Datuk Seri Samy Vellu on the progress of the findings,” he said. 

Azmi said broken underground pipes could have caused the landslide. 

“It is unlikely that rainfall could have caused it because there was only 8mm of rain on the day it occurred,” he said. 

Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Shahrizat Abdul Jalil said the Welfare Department would provide those affected with relief including food, clothing and other items. 

“Each family will receive RM300,” she said. 

So far, 138 families had registered for aid. 

Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting has asked for a report on the condition of the flats that were vacated. 

“Various agencies are investigating the safety of the buildings. 

“Wait for the full report before I comment,” he said.