Ng (second left) with Rapid Penang officials and a passenger in front of the DRT van in Air Itam. — Courtesy photos
THE trial service of the Rapid Bus’ Demand Responsive Transit (DRT) is now available in Bandar Baru Air Itam and Air Itam in Penang.
The service began on Aug 1 and would be available until Oct 31, running from 6am to 11pm.
The DRT service will benefit Rapid users who previously had difficulty accessing bus services because of narrow roads, especially in residential areas.
The service in Penang, which covers a radius of 2km, will further connect passengers to several hotspots such as the Air Itam town area, the Kek Lok Si Temple and the Farlim town area.
Ng (left) and Rapid Penang northern region head Ahmad Shabuddin Abdullah showing the interior of the Rapid Bus’ DRT van.
Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng said it was great having the DRT as it could access hilly areas and narrow roads.
“In Air Itam, there are a few areas that cannot be accessed by bus because of the slopes and narrow roads.
“The buses stop at designated bus stops, but the DRT can go further and drop off people close to their preferred location.
“When the service was launched, I tried it out and it felt like being in a private vehicle.
“It only costs RM1 per trip but is free for Mutiara pass holders.
“This is an affordable option with a purpose of helping those heading to areas that buses cannot go into,” Ng said in a media statement after trying out the service.
He expects the response will be good. However, he said senior citizens might find it difficult as they had to book the service via a phone app.
“We encourage their children to help them as this service is good and safer for the aged,” he added.
