People carrying OKU passengers are also illegally using these reserved lots, says Damai Disabled People Association president V Murugeswaran.
PETALING JAYA: Public abuse of designated parking spots for the disabled (OKU) has to stop, says Damai Disabled People Association president V Murugeswaran.
He said the uncaring attitude of the public was a cause for concern.
“The OKU parking bays are meant for the wheelchair-bound but they are frequently abused by the public.
“It looks like they are not bothered that they are inconveniencing the OKU,” he told FMT.
Murugeswaran, who is wheelchair-bound, said there were incidents of the disabled having to drive around in circles looking for a parking bay.
“Most of the OKU parking lots are situated close to the banks, clinics and other amenities.
“When the OKU don’t get to park at the OKU lots, they have to look for other places to park.
“There were incidents where they get caught in the rain because they had to park a distance from where they are headed.”
Murugeswaran said the local councils should regularly remove the illegal stickers plastered on the parking signboards.
“Sometimes, the OKU do not know where to park as the signs are covered by stickers.
“We are frustrated with the authorities and I have received numerous complaints from our members.”
Malaysia Spinal Injury Association secretary Jeyaraj Santraju, who is also wheelchair-bound, said food vendor vans were also parking at OKU parking lots.
“The vendors also place their chairs on the next lot for customers. This usually happens at night.
“They are taking advantage of the space meant for the OKU to do their business.”
Jayaraj said enforcement officers should patrol the OKU parking at least once every hour to prevent the public as well as motorcyclists from using the OKU parking bays
“Those driving their disabled friend or family members are also parking at OKU lots.
“This shouldn’t happen as the lots are meant only for disabled drivers.
“Their excuse is that they are carrying an OKU person. They should drop the person off and then park at a regular parking bay.”
Jayaraj, who recently authored the book “Guidance of Wheelchair Bound”, hopes that regular enforcement would be able to curb the illegal parking at OKU lots.