TRAFFIC congestion is getting worse throughout the country and is becoming a major concern of the Malaysian public.

Everyone complains about being stuck in traffic but, like the weather, no one seems to do anything about it.

Traffic engineers, transport planners, and local authorities who are responsible for the transportation systems and infrastructure are frequently condemned for failing to provide a cure or to alleviate the situation.

Statistics show there were 13.7 million vehicles on Malaysian roads in 2007 and another million is expected to be added this year. If this continues, it is possible Malaysians will have to spend most of their time being trapped in traffic jams.

Building more roads and having additional lanes is is only a short-term solution. The best way to reduce traffic congestion is through long-term regional planning that incorporates a comprehensive approach to expanding and improving the transportation system.

Public transportation can lead the fight against traffic congestion, as it reduces the number of vehicles on the road and vehicle miles travelled. It promotes smarter growth and more productive development, as well as drastically reducing the amount of land needed for cars.

For instance, urban rail systems can provide more capacity in a 100-foot right-of-way than a six-lane freeway requiring a 300-foot right-of-way. Moreover, parking space required can be reduced by up to 50%.

Unfortunately, in Malaysia, the level of service of public transportation is still unsatisfactory, which discourages the public from using it. There are many complaints from the public on the level of service, particularly on the frequency, number and coverage.

To establish an efficient transit mode, the Federal Government needs to cooperate with state and local governments to expand the availability of transit services across the country.

Without new investment in public transportation, the Malaysian surface transportation system could become so congested that it will no longer work.

As Vision 2020 is only 12 years away, an efficient public transport system is vital, as it will socially and economically benefit the public and the country.

NCER, ECER and IDR are to serve as economic boosters, but without an efficient mobility and transportation system, will they be boom or doom?

MOHD KHAIRUL FIZREEY ARIFFIN,

Kuala Lumpur.

Source: The Star – January 10, 2008