200 sensors to monitor health of trees around KL

Kuala Lumpur is set to enhance its urban greenery management by installing 200 sensors on trees across the city. These sensors will provide real-time data on the health of the trees, allowing authorities to quickly address any potential hazards.

Datuk Bandar Kuala Lumpur, Datuk Seri Fadlun Mak Ujud, explained that this move is an improvement following the mapping of 25,000 trees in Phase 1, which was funded by the Ministry of Digital. This mapping exercise helped the Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) identify trees that were healthy and those that were not.

The sensors will be placed approximately 1.2 meters above the ground and connected to a central control center. "The control center will provide us with indicators so we can know whether a tree is dangerous or healthy. If it is dangerous, we will take appropriate action," Fadlun stated. This proactive approach aims to ensure that trees requiring maintenance or other interventions are identified early.

This monitoring effort will include older trees, such as those along Jalan Ampang. "We will take the latest action by supporting branches that have the potential to fall if they are still in good condition," Fadlun added. The city aims to preserve these trees and avoid unnecessary felling. For Phase 2, an additional 200 trees will be planted, and funding will be sought for another 400 trees in urban areas.