Only proper MRT, LRT, bus connectivity will reduce jams, MP tells minister

KUALA LUMPUR - Opposition MP Maria Chin has told Transport Minister Datuk Seri Wee Ka Siong to review connectivity offered by busses, MRT and LRT in Klang Valley as it does not take passengers to hospitals, markets and schools.

She said Wee needs to study the travelling pattern of Klang Valley folks and offer transport accordingly.

The Petaling Jaya MP added public transportation access from residential areas to hospitals and schools remains poor.

"One month of free ride is just a temporary measure. Public transportation services especially buses, MRT or LRT, do not stop at strategic places like hospitals, post offices, or markets, she said causing people to drive their cars.

Due to that, she said proper planning was needed to connect these areas "as(more) elevated highways will not solve the traffic congestion issue," she told Sinar Daily Politically Frank.

Chin was commenting on a recent announcement by the government to spend RM155 million for one month of free rides in Klang Valley to encourage people to take public transport and reduce jams.

"So if you provide one or two months of free rides but you don't connect places where people usually go to, it really defeats the purpose," Chin said urging Wee to review the public transport connectivity.

Chin further urged Wee to look at Sabah and Sarawak and improve the mode of transport. "We have pretty good roads here but it is not the same in Sabah and Sarawak.

Once people in Borneo ave access to proper roads, she said: "only then can you safely say that you have provided good mobility at lower cost," Chin told Wee.