Putrajaya offers free rides on trackless tram for FT Day

In conjunction with the Putrajaya Open Day, the city is set to kickstart the trial run of its trackless tram service.

The public will have the chance to take a complimentary ride on the Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) vehicle from February 1 to February 4, 2024.

The free trial ride marks the official commencement of the ART pilot project in the administrative capital.

Trackless tram takes centre stage

During the trial period from February 1 to December 2024, the trackless tram service will be free for members of the public.

Perbadanan Putrajaya (PPj), the local authority overseeing Putrajaya, posted on Facebook, encouraging people in and around the city not to miss the chance to try the innovative ART.

While the initial free ride will only be available for four days, the pilot testing phase will continue until the end of the year.

However, PPj did not provide additional details such as the tram’s route and technical specifications.

Putrajaya and its tram aspirations

As early as February 2016, then federal territories minister Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Mansor expressed the government’s interest in trams as a cost-effective solution to address traffic congestion in Putrajaya.

The government’s plans included introducing a tram service in Putrajaya and Cyberjaya within three years.

In March 2018, the Land Public Transport Commission (Spad) proposed a tram system for Putrajaya, Bangi, Cyberjaya, and Kajang.

The proposal emphasized the system’s eco-friendly nature and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional rail public transportation systems.

Subsequently, Spad has been replaced by the Land Public Transport Agency (Apad).

The trial run of the trackless tram service aligns with Putrajaya’s commitment to exploring modern and sustainable transportation solutions.

Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to participate in the trial and contribute to the city’s efforts in shaping the future of public transportation.