By P.Chandra Sagaran
Several plans are on the drawing board to develop and improve the Indian community business centre,Little India at Jalan Lahat.
Human Resources, National Integration,Health and Indian Affairs Committee Chairman A.Sivanesan said:” Housing and Local Government Ministry and State Government are working together to draw up the plans.
“Little India is the centre of business and as such some development projects need to be done,” he told reporters after visiting Little India stalls in conjunction with Deepavali celebrations on Oct 16.
The former Ipoh Mayor Datuk Rumaizi Baharin @ Md Daud had previously appointed a private firm to conduct a survey on how to upgrade the business centre.
According to him he had spoken to the new mayor Zamakhshari Hanipah on the issue.
“I have also brought up the matter in pre pre-budget meeting with Menteri Besar and hope some good news will come up in the form of allocation.
“Come 2026 developments could take place, we will have a discussion with the Little Traders Association,”he added.
Sivanesan stressed the main problem is lack of car parks as a multi storey facility was planned but only can accommodate 30 cars.
“Our plan is a multi storey building which can cater for more than 100 cars. The top level will be for parking while the ground can be utilised for other activities.
“It is hoped Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming who is also the Kepayang state assemblyman for the area would look into the matter,” he added.