The Concrete Jungle Grows: Taman Desa's Grim Transformation

The "before" state of this area in Taman Danau Desa, Selangor, Malaysia, is characterized by two distinct areas marked in red. One red plot, labeled "POLICE" is a reserved land right beside an active construction site, used to be our food court.

The second red plot, labeled "PLAYGROUND," is a densely vegetated green space, indicating an existing natural or recreational zone with mature trees. This is the last standing green area in Taman Desa.

Artist rendition of site after development

The scene after development presents a starkly transformed urban landscape. Where once a green "PARK AREA" provided a natural respite, a towering high-rise residential building now stands, its concrete and glass façade dominating the skyline. The base of this new structure, as well as the area where the "POLICE AREA" once was, is now consumed by extensive, multi-level car parks. These vast expanses of asphalt and concrete are perpetually crammed with vehicles, their presence a testament to the increased population density and reliance on personal transport.

The roads, once moderately trafficked, are now perpetually gridlocked, particularly during peak hours. The addition of hundreds, if not thousands, of new residents has overwhelmed the existing infrastructure. Driving conditions are a constant struggle, marked by bumper-to-bumper traffic, the blare of horns, and the pervasive smell of exhaust fumes.

On Friday nights, the situation escalates into a chaotic tableau as the local pasar malam (night market) sets up. The narrow streets, already struggling with daily traffic, become almost impassable. Pedestrians, jostling for space with slow-moving cars, navigate through a labyrinth of makeshift stalls. The air is thick with the mingled scents of street food, the chatter of vendors, and the exasperated murmurs of drivers trapped in seemingly endless queues. The once-charming local event now contributes to a suffocating sense of congestion, highlighting the grim reality of unchecked urban expansion in what was once a more balanced environment. Step up and help us to protect Taman Desa from over development