Smart Selangor Bus routes to undergo review to elevate quality

The state government has mandated a comprehensive review of the Smart Selangor Bus routes to elevate the quality of public transportation, reported Selangor Journal.

This initiative aims to align the existing routes with the demand-responsive transit (DRT) van service, ensuring optimal utilisation of resources and improved connectivity, particularly to light rail transit (LRT) stations.

Strategic alignment with DRT

Ng Sze Han, the state executive councillor for public transportation, emphasised the importance of the study to align Smart Selangor Bus routes effectively with the DRT van service.

The goal is to maximise the benefits for residents in each area, especially in providing transit to LRT stations.

“This review will help us optimise every ringgit allocated for the existing routes with DRT. The local authorities will propose suitable locations for buses and DRT,” stated Ng during a press conference.

Ng announced plans to expand DRT service zones, with a particular focus on Shah Alam for Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) students.

He expressed satisfaction with the positive response to the DRT service, citing an increase in users from 800 to almost 1,500 individuals in Puchong.

“The response thus far has been very encouraging. In Puchong, we are expanding in several areas, and the number of users has increased from 800 to almost 1,500 individuals,” Ng affirmed.

Improving public transportation in Selangor

The review of Smart Selangor Bus routes aligns with the Transport Ministry’s agenda to enhance public transportation quality in the Klang Valley.

The study also explores the possibility of using DRT to replace Smart Selangor Buses in densely populated areas and narrow routes in the future.

Ng highlighted the holistic approach of the study, which includes improvements to the first and last-mile connectivity ecosystem.

This encompasses comfortable pedestrian pathways and explores micro-mobility options, including e-scooters and electric bicycles.

Launched on July 1, 2015, the Smart Selangor Bus service has been a crucial component of Selangor’s public transportation strategy.

With over 50 bus routes and 150 buses deployed across Selangor local government areas, the service has played a vital role in reducing congestion and promoting public transportation.

The ongoing review demonstrates the commitment of the state government to enhance connectivity and provide efficient and sustainable transportation options for residents.

Source: Selangor Journal