Public thankful major transport projects will go on

THE government’s move to continue the LRT3, MRT2 and Double-Tracking 2 Lembah Klang projects is welcomed by the public.

Malaysian Public Transport Users Association (4PAM) president Ajit Johl said he was thankful the government did not scrap these projects.

However, he hoped the savings made in the projects would translate into more public amenities such as CCTVs at these stations.

“I want to thank the government on the cost-saving measures. I do hope a portion of the savings will also be used to light up some of the KTM stations that are otherwise dark. There must be better pavements and connecting walkways at these stations that are accessible to all, including the disabled,” he said.

“Continuation of the projects is necessary because the Klang Valley requires its entire public transportation network to be connected,” said former Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ) councillor Lee Suet Sen.

“These projects must be linked and well supported by feeder buses, taxis and pedestrian walkways,” said Lee.

Frequent public transport user Ruby Lim said she hoped the cost-cutting measures would not result in the removal of planned stations and train coaches.

“I’m glad these projects are continuing, but please plan for the future by making sure these services are affordable and cheaper than driving our own vehicles.

“You can’t just say go green without the affordable options in place.

“The unlimited monthly pasess for RapidKL rail and bus services is welcomed, but the transportation system must be accessible to the disabled, otherwise the community will not be able to enjoy the perks,” said disability and equality training facilitator Peter Tan.

Wheelchair user Tan hoped the cost-cutting measures would not result in the downgrading of rail services and amenities.

“Every rail station must have lifts and proper ramps for the disabled, elderly and children. You can’t just build train stations which we cannot access.

“Lifts at these stations must be working at all times otherwise wheelchair users won’t be able to even leave the train stations,” said Tan.

Frequent public transportation user Sally Toh would now be able to save about 50% of her travel expenses with the RM100 unlimited monthly pasess for RapidKL rail and bus services.

Toh does not own a vehicle and relies on public transportation.

“I travel a lot from Taman Desa to other parts of the Klang Valley through RapidKL services. I think I will be able to save over RM100 and it means a lot to me,” said Toh.