Cable theft brought on Prasarana RM20.6m losses, impacts Speedy KL practice providers for hundreds of thousands in Klang Valley

Cable theft is disrupting Speedy KL rail operations, straight affecting hundreds of thousands of commuters within the Klang Valley. That is along with losses of RM20.6 million previously three years, Prasarana says. Delays apart, there’s additionally the protection threat difficulty.

In an announcement issued yesterday, the general public transport operator stated that instances of cable theft are rising. In 2024, 41 instances of cable theft have been recorded, however there have been 69 instances this 12 months, which is a 68% enhance. This pattern is spurred by demand and the market worth of the cables, particularly the copper inside, which makes it profitable to syndicates.

Prasarana group chief well being, security, safety, setting and sustainable growth officer Idzqandar Abu Bakar stated that cable theft doesn’t simply impression the corporate’s steadiness sheet, however it includes operational security and impacts hundreds of thousands of commuters who depend on rail providers each day.

“Each theft incident causes disruption to coach operations. Restore and substitute of cables have to be carried out instantly to revive important techniques, and on this scenario, passengers are essentially the most affected,” he stated, including that each incident additionally impacts different rail operators and telecommunications corporations. It’s additionally affecting the the East Coast Rail Hyperlink’s completion timeline.

Idzqandar stated that it is a repetitive and organised crime that brings widespread implications to important nationwide infrastructure. On its half, Prasarana has deployed safety personnel, joint patrols with the PDRM, put in CCTVs and even examined the usage of sniffer canines on the 2 MRT traces.

“Prasarana can be working with MRT Corp to strengthen bodily safety at sure places. Nonetheless, with a rail line spanning over 200 km, this effort is tough to implement alone with out the assist of a extra complete enforcement and regulatory ecosystem,” Idzqandar stated, urging all stakeholders together with enforcement companies, lawmakers, business gamers and the general public to collectively tackle the problem.

The assertion stated that regardless of all of the measures taken, theft continues to be taking place and there are even repeated instances involving the identical particular person. The corporate says that so long as the crime syndicates can promote on the cables brazenly and lucratively, this scourge will proceed. It’s urging tighter enforcement on the chain of cable gross sales and heavier punishment for repeat offenders.

What can the general public do to assist? Instantly report any suspicious actions across the rail traces to the police. Right here’s hoping that the cops can take down not simply the thieves, however the patrons of their loot – reduce off the basis trigger to resolve the issue.

Trying to promote your automotive? Promote it with Automobile.