[UPDATED] S’gor to contribute 20 buses to help commuters after LRT debacle

SHAH ALAM – Selangor will contribute 20 of its Bas Smart Selangor to help those affected by the Kelana Jaya LRT service disruption.

Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari said he took note of the insufficient bus services offered by Rapid Rail as a substitute mode of transport, following the week-long rail disruption.

He said the state government will finalise the offer of the 20 buses with the rail operator to avoid overlapping services and routes.

“The state government regrets the incident of the LRT disruption, which will prolong for a week, affecting 16 stations.

“To help the thousands that are affected, the state will discuss with Rapid Rail on the use of 20 units of Bas Smart Selangor starting tomorrow. This is important to ensure efficiency of the service,” he said in a press conference here today.

According to Amirudin, the 20 buses will complement the 160 existing routes provided by Rapid Rail. 

In a statement early this morning, Rapid Rail had announced its decision to suspend LRT services for 16 stations between Kelana Jaya and Ampang Park, following two days of disruption to its rail line. 

In a press conference earlier today, Prasarana president and group CEO Mohd Azharuddin Mat Sah said the exact cause of the crisis has yet to be pinpointed. 

Amirudin said the state’s decision to offer 20 of its buses will not affect its existing Bas Smart Selangor service. 

“We have extra buses meant as backup, which are on standby, in case of disruption or breakdown. It won’t majorly affect our operations. 

“I believe even these 20 units will be insufficient to cater to the thousands affected by the disruption. If there is a further need for more buses, we will look at it again. This is our continued effort.”

Amirudin said although Selangor has no exclusive power on public transportation matters, he hopes more jurisdiction will be accorded to states. – The Vibes, November 9, 2022