GOMBAK, 21 Mar: The new fare increase for public transportation announced by the Land Public Transport Commission (SPAD) would burden the people due to the rising cost of living, including the implementation of the goods and services tax (GST).
The Chief Minister, Mohamed Azmin Ali, said that instead focus should be given to improving the existing services to a more efficient level for the benefit of the people.
“The central government should focus on giving a larger budget to the SPAD so that steps can be taken to improve public transport services such as the Light Rail Transit (LRT) and the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT).
“It will help to disperse traffic in the country in addition to reducing transportation costs so that a more efficient transport system can benefit the people,” he said.
He said this after attending the 5A Notice Presentation Ceremony at the Muhibbah Complex today.
Mohamed Azmin said that so far the SPAD has set a target of 40:60, 40 percent for public transport while the rest is for private vehicles.
He said that the ratio should be reviewed to ensure focus on public transport can be improved for the long term.
“We are suggesting for the ratio to be changed to 60:40 (more for public transport) so that we can achieve the goal to disperse traffic and reduce the cost of transportation in this country,” he said.
Two days ago the SPAD announced the adjustment of taxi and rental car rates of 20 to 67 percent, while express bus fares will be increased by 22.6 percent starting May 15.
The increase was due to higher costs incurred by public transport operators, including maintenance costs.
NS
