The MRT should be allowed to shine

I REFER to the article “Some harsh truths about the MRT” published on Jan 9. I was puzzled to read about the harsh criticism levelled against the MRT and public transport service in general. The MRT has not even been in operation for a full month let alone the full line completion of phase 1 (out of 3 phases).

The writer describes that the MRT is not targeting the lower-income group, which is misleading as its main purpose is to ease people’s mobility around the city. All income levels will benefit from this. For instance, taking the MRT makes more economic sense than to drive into the city.

We must remember car fuel consumption cannot be quantified by the kilometre usage alone. There is the cost of maintenance, fluctuations in petrol costs, loan payments, wear and tear, road tax, potential for summonses, parking fees and toll charges.

Since the launch of the MRT, I have travelled to work using the service (Sungai Buloh to Phileo Damansara) thus putting one less car on the road. It is my choice and it is something that we should be proud to have.

The easing of congestion will not happen overnight but if more people start knowing where the MRT and the feeder buses can take them, then more people will start using them as an option.

The writer assumes that the MRT is too expensive for users and at the same time questions the ability for it to pay off its debt. I find this an oxymoron. So if the writer suggests that the solution is to half the costs and yet keep MRT’s debt under control, we should question the writer’s understanding of the economics and social value of the public transport system. I am all for cheaper fares but to expect it to be almost free is unrealistic. As a public transport user my main concern is for the trains and buses to run on time.

It will take time for Malaysians to get used to the MRT and to fully reap the benefits when all three lines are completed. Till then let us not run it down for the sake of wanting to voice an opinion without giving any real solutions. Instead the arguments should be focused on pressuring those in charge of daily operations to be efficient, professional and run the trains and buses on time.

Nik Jaafar Petaling Jaya