KUALA LUMPUR: The uprooted tree that fell and killed a man on Jalan Sultan Ismail is over 50-years-old.
Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Federal Territories) Dr Zaliha Mustafa said the tree is monitored by Menara IMC.
"Inspection on this tree is done once every two years with arborists registered with City Hall.
"Menara IMC liaises directly with City Hall's landscape department to conduct checks," she said at visit at the scene with mayor Datuk Kamarulzaman Mat Salleh.
Dr Zaliha said the age of most trees in the city ranged between 50 and 80 years old.
She said there was a need for guidelines on the maintenance of the old trees in the city to avert future mishaps.
"It is high time, given the uncertain weather.
"These trees may look strong but something needs to be done to ensure public safety.
"We expect to work on the guidelines the soonest possible," she said.
Earlier, the Kuala Lumpur Fire and Rescue Department said a 47-year-old man died after the uprooted tree fell on his car on Jalan Sultan Ismail.
The other victim was an injured man aged 26 who was rushed to the hospital.
The incident occurred during a heavy downpour and strong winds in the city.
Firefighters said 17 vehicles were damaged by the fallen tree, where part of it had smashed onto the KL Monorail track and services have been suspended.
