Melaka looking at monorail proposals to ease traffic

MELAKA: The state is studying proposals for a more efficient monorail connectivity as the troubled RM16.5mil recreational monorail is unlikely to be used as a public transport model, says a senior official.

State public works, transport, public amenities and infrastructure committee chairman Datuk Roslan Ahmad said proposals by private companies to build a monorail system for the historic city were being reviewed.

“We have to take many aspects into consideration like cost, viability and land acquisition before making a decision,” he said in an interview.

Roslan said the crucial point of connection for the monorail would be from Ayer Keroh to Bandar Hilir.

“The purpose of studying the proposals is also to address traffic congestion.

“The Ayer Keroh-Bandar Hilir line will be under the first phase, before other towns are linked,” he said.

The recreational monorail that was first introduced in 2010 was discontinued due to a host of technical issues and lack of passengers.

Roslan said the state government was also hoping to revive the tram project first proposed in 2010 at a cost of RM272mil.

He said tram would be a cheaper alternative as it could utilise the current road alignment.

“We are also hoping to connect the tram alignment with Ayer Keroh and Bandar Hilir,” he said.

The tram service was proposed to operate on natural gas covering 23 locations along a 40km route from Ayer Keroh to Banda Hilir.