By Yasmin Ramlan
SHAH ALAM, Oct 16 — Selangor MPs have given the Federal government a massive thumbs up following its decision to revive the five Light Rail Transit 3 (LRT3) stations that were previously shelved, asserting that it would bring substantial advantages to residents.
Speaking to Selangor Journal, Shah Alam MP Azli Yusof and Klang’s V. Ganabatirau lauded the announcement as positive news for everyone, particularly the local community, whom they say will now gain greater access to public transportation.
“This is great news for Shah Alam residents. Commuters will enjoy access to more stations and can choose ones that are nearer to them,” Azli said.
The Amanah lawmaker pointed out the two of the stations in particular — Raja Muda and Bukit Raja — will ensure better connectivity for some of the more highly populated areas in his constituency.
“The Raja Muda station will be located close to those staying in Seksyen 6 and Seksyen 2, whereas Bukit Raja station will be nearer to those staying in Seksyen 7 (West) and I-City.”
Azli said better accessibility will also greatly benefit residents commuting to work in the Seksyen 16 and Bukit Raja industrial areas, thereby reducing the need to use private transportation.
“I hope this will encourage the use of public transportation and ease traffic congestion as well as reduce carbon emission,” he said.
On Friday, when tabling the Budget 2024, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had announced that the Federal government had agreed to reinstate the construction of five LRT3 stations that were scrapped by the former Pakatan Harapan administration.
The stations are Tropicana, Raja Muda, Temasya, Bukit Raja, and Bandar Botanik.
Anwar said the move is aimed at enhancing the transportation network, with approximately two million residents expected to directly benefit from the project, which will set the government back RM4.7 billion.
Azli said following the announcement, he has received warm and encouraging responses from Shah Alam residents, with most of them expressing excitement.
“They also suggested an effective first and last-mile connectivity, with sufficient parking spaces for commuters and efficient routes for shuttle buses.
“This will guarantee optimal and efficient utilisation of the LRT3 service.
“Some have even proposed that the state government promote safe walking and biking for residents commuting to the stations,” he said.
Echoing Azli’s sentiment, Ganabatirau applauded the government’s initiative, perceiving it as a proactive measure to address traffic congestion, a concern frequently voiced by the public.
“I really welcome the revival of the LRT3 stations, especially Bukit Raja and Bandar Botanik in my Klang constituency.
“It will definitely provide a better transportation system for the public and ease traffic congestion for residents,” he said.
