POLICE should consider dismantling the roadblocks in Jalan Air Itam or partially lifting them, says Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng.
He said the authorities could reconsider their decision on manning the roadblocks throughout the whole day as Penang has reached a safe zone status.
On March 30, barricades were set up beside the Air Itam police station and the Jalan Kampung Pisang-Jalan Paya Terubong junction to prevent overcrowding at the Air Itam market area as a measure to curb the Covid-19 pandemic.
Ng said he had discussed the matter with the police and the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) after listening to the plight of the traders at the Air Itam Market and its vicinity.
“Since Penang has been declared a green zone, the police perhaps can consider lifting the roadblocks to help the traders with their livelihood.
“If not, the police can at least shorten the hours of the roadblocks. Instead of 24 hours, they can do it from 6am to 12pm.
“Since the movement control order was extended, I have been constantly discussing this matter with the police,’’ Ng told a press conference on May 6.
Apart from that, Ng also appealed to MBPP to allow the roadside hawkers to restart their business.
“I have also spoken to the MBPP mayor a few times on this matter and I hope that the city council can allow these petty traders to resume their businesses. They have stopped operating for more than 30 days.
“There are 140 stalls. Maybe, the council can allow the stalls to operate on rotation basis with half the number operating each day,” he said.
Air Itam Market Association chairman Ooi Thean Huat, who was also present at the press conference, said he was concerned for the safety of eldery market-goers who had to walk quite a distance due to the roadblocks.
“I hope that the police will allow the elderly market-goers to be picked up and dropped off to make it easy for them,” said Ooi.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Alissala Thian