KUCHING: Rail transport using Autonomous Rail Transit (ART) may be slower since it runs on roads instead of rail tracks, it is definitely much better than drivers’ frustration being stuck in a heavy traffic jam.
Sarawak Patriots Association (SPA) chairman Datuk Dr John Lau Pang Heng told this to New Sarawak Tribune via WhatsApp yesterday.
He was commenting on the announcement on the implementation of ART which is expected to start with Samarahan-Kuching area by 2025.
Describing ART as a crossover between a train, a bus and a tram, Lau commended the mode of transport which would enable the Kuching-Samarahan link to be realised soon.
“For those from Kuching who are working in Samarahan and vice versa, ART will relieve the daily traffic congestion, particularly during rush hours.”
He further stressed that SPA fully supported the Sarawak government’s initiative to start the rail transport system in the state.
“ART is a very welcome news as Sarawak has the financial means to do it. It will help to generate economic activities and lessen the cost of living,” he said.
On Saturday, Chief Minister Abang Johari Tun Openg announced that the ART public transportation system would be on the streets by 2025 with Kuching-Samarahan route as pilot project.
Currently, the Ministry of Transport and Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) are conducting a study on the system.
