By Dewi Abdul Rahman
SUBANG JAYA, April 4 — The victims of the massive fire at Putra Heights on April 1 have called on the authorities to take quick action to help ease their plight.
Many have said that they have been suffering immense difficulties to be without a home.
Among the victims was Chan Weng Hoi, 64, who said he has been traumatised by the incident and remains deeply worried about whether he can safely return to his home.
“My house did not suffer too much damage as compared with the houses of my neighbours, but its ceiling has broke and water can fall through. It is my only home, I have nowhere else,” he said.
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Chan Weng Hoi[/caption]
Another resident, Ismail Jais, 67, said he is counting his blessings that his house was the last on the row of houses nearest to the fire, and was therefore not badly affected. However, falling debris caused by the explosion has damaged its ceiling.
“I hope we can get help fast. It is my one and only home,” he said, adding that for now, he is lodging with one of his children.
Yati, 42, another resident, said she is saddened that she is still not allowed to return to her house of 15 years.
“The situation seems worse today (yesterday), and my home is still not ready to be inspected. I will need to find a place to rent for now,” she said in distress.
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Yati[/caption]
In the meantime, Kota Kemuning assemblyman S. Preakas said his team is working with the resident’s association of Putra Heights to provide the latest information to the residents.
“The Kota Kemuning service centre has been providing food and temporary shelter to 20 residents,” he said.
As of today, 115 house owners have been given the green light to return to their premises in phases to carry out checks, but under strict supervision. They will be escorted by personnel from the relevant authorities for safety reasons.
