KUANTAN: Local authorities in Pahang are finalising transport links to East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) stations in Kuantan, Temerloh, Maran, and Bentong ahead of its Dec 12 launch.
Pahang Public Works, Transport, and Health Committee chairman Datuk Razali Kassim said the initiative aims to improve public transport links between ECRL stations and surrounding areas, making it easier for commuters to reach their destinations.
The ECRL, which will connect Kota Baru to the Gombak Integrated Transport Terminal via Kelantan, Terengganu, Pahang and Selangor, is scheduled to begin operations on Dec 12.
"Improved access routes will ensure smoother integration between rail services and local transport networks, including bus terminals, allowing passengers to travel to and from ECRL stations with ease.
"Shuttle and stage buses are among the measures being considered, alongside taxis and e-hailing services. We do not want commuters to be stranded or left waiting for hours at stations due to inadequate transport links.
"These improvements will ease travel, particularly for residents living far from the stations, and encourage more people to use the rail service," he told the New Straits Times today.
On Oct 19, the ECRL announced that economy-class fares between Gombak and Kota Baru would start at RM125. The service is targeting 1.4 million passengers annually from next year.
Pahang has seven ECRL stations, located in Temerloh, Bentong, Maran, Paya Besar, Kota SAS, Kuantan Port City and Cherating.
Meanwhile, Razali said plans were underway to develop an integrated public transport terminal at Paya Besar ECRL Station in Gambang here, as well as an integrated terminal with a commercial centre at Bentong ECRL Station.
He said the four local authorities - Kuantan City Council, Temerloh Municipal Council, Bentong Municipal Council and Maran District Council - were also responsible for formulating Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) plans within their respective jurisdictions.
The TOD plans include Pahangku Apartments, administrative and commercial centres, hotels, business complexes, mixed-use developments, community institutions and facilities within a 15km radius of each ECRL station.
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