Transportation Woes, Working Woes.
Despite the various measures undertaken by the government all these years; we have yet to see an effective, efficient and a comprehensive solution to our daily transportation system. Transportation woes has always been and looks set to continue as a major headache to all and affects those living in the Klang Valley. Unless efforts and bold moves are taken to change the present transportation system.
An initiative being under evaluation by the Authorities is to introduce an 'off-peak' rate as an incentive to encourage more people to use a certain Highway earlier before the normal rush hour to work begins every morning. On the other hand, a new transportation policy is currently being discussed by the government.
Today, we have dedicated bus lanes, LRTs, monorail, rail and buses as a mode to transport people into and outside of the Klang Valey. Much as we like to, the present transportation system is not as effective and efficient. Thus, many people have no other alternative except to drive to and fro from work.
The implementation of any new solution to the current transportation woes in the Klang Valley is to me, nothing more than a short-term, fire-fighting measure. It has not proven as effective and efficient solutions to our transportation woes so far.
What could possibly be a long term solution to our transportation woes is by taking a bold move, in order to encourage a drastic shift in the mindset of the working people. That will progressively evolve into a new working culture for the urbanites and possibly that may ultimately solve our transportation woes for the longer term.
The government must encourage people not to drive to work. To support this move, all public transportation could be provided 'free-of-charge' to all from 6 to 7.30am and 6.00 to 7.30pm every working day. Such a move will certainly witness a drop in vehicles travelling in and out of the Klang Valley considering the price of fuel that we are paying today. However, the bus transportation system will have to be very comprehensive, very efficient and effectively capable of delivering people to their destination on time, every time.
Such an initiative should be able to garner support from the people at large. This is because they do not have to pay any fares during the specified hours. They tend to save by taking public transportation and put that monthly savings into other meaningful use for their households. This move will certainly benefit everyone. Besides, such an initiative will progressively change the mentality of our workforce and promoting a healthy work culture in the longer term. A workforce that is up an ready to leave for work early in the morning and return home on time to spend their evenings with their loved ones.
This move is timely in view of the recent hike in fuel price and is a workable approach to help the working people cushion the impact of spiralling prices on almost everything. Besides, this is the best time to fine tuning our transportation system so that it can emerge as a comprehensive transport solution to all in the not too distant future. The idea of providing free transportation during the spcified hours to all could be a food for thought to the relevant authorities and if implemented it will be a much welcomed move to those residing in the Klang Valley.
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Workable if there is a will to implement it. It can mean a quantum leap to a new work culture. The savings may help to offset the rise in household expenses a little.
Comment by kok— 2008/06/10 @ 05:58 PM — (Reply)
I am sure many will grab this opportunity to leave their cars at home and go for public transportation if this idea is acceptable. But, the buses will have to be able to handle the situation well. Otherwise, a lot of commuters will be stranded along the way. With the fuel hike and the government's readiness to throw a safety net, why not consider providing free public transportation at certain hours a day. It helps our pockets and reduce fuel consumption in light of the high oil prices.
Comment by pei— 2008/06/10 @ 09:38 PM — (Reply)
I really want to leave my car at home and jump into the commuter, LRT and then take a bus to work. Sadly my working area is not serviced by any buses or taxis. Moreover if I take the public transport I don't know if I can reach office on time. your idea is ok with me.
Comment by dino— 2008/06/10 @ 10:41 PM — (Reply)
The idea is worth considering. It should seen as an assistance to alleviate the pinch from surging prices coming from different sectors. Easing the burden from the people will make a worthwhile consideration.
Comment by Ann— 2008/06/11 @ 02:38 PM — (Reply)
The call to improve on our transportation system has never been as urgent as now. In view of the soaring inflation and a possible setback in our economy, our transportation system has to be a viable alternative to all. It has to improve at soonest possible and contribute to the nation by delivering par excellence service to all commuters as we move ahead in these challenging times. All parties have to work together and come out with a blueprint on a comprehensive transportation and have it implemented at soonest possible for the benefit of the people. Our reliance on fuel have to be reduced gradually.
Comment by timor— 2008/06/11 @ 06:57 PM — (Reply)
I see a need to have our transportation system overhauled first. No amount of improvement can really change the situation. At the end of the day, our transportation needs are never met by the providers. Emphasis must be given to tackle this issue. Or, the government will be paying more in subsidies for and inefficient service to the people. A lot need to be done fast.
Comment by commuter— 2008/06/11 @ 10:50 PM — (Reply)
A good suggestion. If every commuter can save on fares it is good news. Furthermore, one need not worry about parking, parking charges, tolls and lower on maintainence cost. All these augurs well and ease the financial burden in each household. I am all for it.
Comment by grumbling— 2008/06/12 @ 02:33 PM — (Reply)