Make public MRT Lines Two and Three alignments early

WITH construction on the first line of the MRT picking up speed, the spotlight will soon fall on the subsequent lines of the MRT network.

Traditionally, details of these projects will only be announced after decisions have been made, though this should not be the case.

The impact that major transport projects have on the public warrants a more proactive approach in seeking opinions.

Official discussions on MRT Lines Two and Three should start before any line has been decided.

The alignment options under consideration for the proposed routes need to get public comments and feedback.

This presents a good opportunity to educate the public on the pros and cons of each option.

Everyone needs to be able to make a comparison on how each alignment will affect the characteristics of a line such as its cost, the travel time, and the resultant split in transport choices of the catchment area.

By starting the process of engagement early, more time will be available for concerns to be addressed and alternatives to be explored.

All relevant concerns and suggestions should be published together with official replies.

Only after these opinions are sought and the alternatives analysed should the preferred option be presented to the public.

The existing process of having a public exhibition after the decisions are made is a poor example of consultation.

It reflects badly on the project proponents if valid concerns are unable to be addressed due to a lack of time.

Archaic practices on public consultation need to keep up with the change of time.

As the private sector is courted to participate in more transport and development projects, the same level of enthusiasm needs to be seen in seeking the views of the public.

Otherwise, we will continue to be building first-world infrastructure with a third-world culture.