SIBU: The local authorities here have been urged to set a more suitable work schedule for maintenance contractors to carry out grass cutting at the Kutien Memorial Park, Bukit Lima here, so as not to disturb the public out and about in the park.
A park visitor, Fred Ngumbang, said the grass cutting work carried out early in the morning caused discomfort to the public who came to jog and for leisure activities.
According to him, the grass cutting machines used not only produced noise, but also emitted smoke which affected the peaceful atmosphere that visitors usually enjoy in the morning.
“Morning is the most suitable time to jog while enjoying the fresh air, but the situation becomes less comfortable when the grass cutting work is carried out while people are using the paths in this park,” he told the media on Monday (Mar 9).
Fred also expressed concern over safety because the grass cutting work is carried out near the jogging path that visitors often use.
He said small stones flung out from the lawn mower can pose a risk of injury to individuals who are near the area.
According to him, the grass cutting work was seen starting around 6.30am to 7am, which is when the park is visited by many people for recreational activities.
He added that this occurred twice in less than a month, namely on Feb 24 and again on Monday (Mar 9).
“For those who regularly jog in this park, this situation is quite disturbing because we have to deal with noise and machine fumes while exercising,” he said.
In this regard, he suggested that the local authorities set a more suitable time for maintenance work such as grass cutting to be carried out, for example after 9 am when most visitors have left.
According to him, the park also starts to be filled with people as early as 4pm for recreation, hence a more regular work schedule can help avoid disruption to visitors.
“We appreciate the efforts of the relevant parties in ensuring that this park is always maintained, but coordinating the working hours will create a more comfortable and safe environment for all parties,” he said.
