High-density development for the future

I REFER to the StarMetro report “Taking TOD out of context” (The Star, Feb 19). There is nothing mysterious about transit oriented development (TOD). It is meant to alleviate traffic congestion and benefit the environment. This is to eliminate the need for private cars and the daily commuting and antecedent pollution.

High-density living is the solution. Only those developments within 400m (deemed a walkable distance) of a MRT/LRT/bus station are considered for TOD. Citizens currently living in low- and medium-density environments who oppose high-density living are just selfish and inconsiderate, and these are the same people who are vocally wondering why property prices are rising rapidly.

Even the proposed 1:8 plot ratio in Petaling Jaya is relatively low compared to other major cities.

PJ is no longer just a satellite suburban residential town. We have to plan it as a megacity now. We cannot believe that our city problems are insurmountable with a mere 800,000 population when megacities with tens of millions in population are able to develop as liveable cities.

Let’s not shortchange ourselves. Land resource is limited and we need to have intense use of limited resources to cater for the projected population growth.

The earlier we adopt and accept TOD and inculcate city living, the faster we can wean away from private transport. With the sharing economy taking off, it is a reality that one does not need to own cars if we live, work and play all within transit oriented mixed-use developments.

Those who oppose TOD and inner-city high-density living are either selfish, misinformed or ignorant.