JOHOR BARU: Johor Baru city area needs a relevant and efficient public transport system network that can complement the Johor Baru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link, which is currently being developed, says Datuk Mohd Noorazam Osman (pic).
The Johor Baru mayor added that among the public transport systems that both the state and federal governments should seriously consider was a Light Rail Transit (LRT) system connecting Johor Baru and other nearby districts such as Kulai and Pasir Gudang.
“Johor Baru is getting too congested due to the heavy presence of vehicles. Now is the time for this city to be equipped with an LRT just like in the Klang Valley or Singapore's Mass Rapid Transit (MRT).
“Upgrading the public transport system around Johor Baru to become more efficient will also help ease traffic flow into and out of the city area,” he said when met after chairing the Johor Baru City Council (MBJB) full council meeting at Menara MBJB here on Tuesday (Oct 3).
Mohd Noorazam added that there were concerns about the ridership if Johor Baru has its own LRT system.
“Once the RTS is completed, it will be able to move 10,000 passengers per hour in each direction between Bukit Chagar here and Singapore’s Woodlands North.
“Where will these people park their vehicles as MBJB wants to reduce the number of vehicles in the city area. By having a public transport system that complements RTS, it will encourage the people to use public transportation instead of driving on their own into the city area.
The RTS Link is on track to be completed by the end of 2026 and expected to be operational on Jan 1, 2027.
