I REFER to Upset LRT User’s letter, “Why the LRT isn’t worth the switch” (The Star, Aug 23). I understand the concerns of a fellow commuter but for every situation, there are always two sides to it. I for one am happy and made the switch to the LRT when it started operating.

I am a resident of USJ where four new LRT stations are situated along Jalan Kewajipan. Working at KL has been a hassle due to the unreasonable parking charges amounting to at least RM10 a day and the daily jam that every driver has to face.

Using the newly-opened LRT has given me a cheaper option to travel to KL at only RM3.60 per trip, or RM7.20 with the return trip. This is already cheaper than parking.

A quick Internet search shows that a trip from end-to-end of the Kelana Jaya line – Gombak to Putra Heights – only costs a mere RM5.40; a car trip will take more than an hour without traffic!

I have to agree that charges on the BRT are absurd but it is justifiable due to the high investment and low volume crowd serviced by the BRT which resulted in fares of up to RM5.40 one way.

The frequency of trains servicing the Kelana Jaya line is also lacking, which results in full coaches before the train arrives at Kelana Jaya.

However, public transport is designed to help the general public and not to cater to only a few communities. I am sure much consideration was made in designing routes for the greatest benefit to most communities.

No public transport network can cater to every user’s need, not even the extensive networks of Paris, London, and Hong Kong.

My observations on the increase in the number of commuters in areas with a large park and ride facility (Glenmarie Station) proves that many road users are starting to make the switch to public transport, even when they need to drive to the station.

The LRT is a good initiative that provides an alternative transport for most people to travel around the Klang Valley.

Even though it is far from perfect, I am grateful that it has helped many who are no longer being stuck in the jam every morning.

REGULAR LRT USER

Subang Jaya



