Govt to spend RM60mil on direct link between RTS, KTMB stations

The Malaysian government plans to construct a RM60 million bridge connecting the Bukit Chagar RTS Link station and the KTMB Komuter service. This initiative aims to enhance public transport integration and simplify access for commuters. Transport Minister Loke Siew Fook disclosed that the project is anticipated to be completed within 12 months, significantly reducing the travel distance between the two key transit hubs.

The bridge will enable KTMB Komuter passengers to walk directly to the Bukit Chagar RTS station without the need for a detour through JB Sentral, thereby streamlining their journey and promoting the use of public transport. Speaking to reporters after a visit to the RTS Link project, Loke emphasized the government's commitment to encouraging commuters to utilize public transport to reach Bukit Chagar or exit from the station.

In addition to the bridge project, the government is also implementing stage bus service transformation 2.0, which involves adding at least 200 new buses to serve residential areas around Johor Bahru and connect them to Bukit Chagar. The expansion of bus services is planned to coincide with the opening of the RTS Link, ensuring effective passenger dispersal and optimizing the performance of the new transit system.

The Bukit Chagar RTS Link station will be integrated with JB Sentral, e-hailing services, and other public transport facilities, transforming it into a multi-modal public transport hub. The RTS Link is scheduled to commence operations on January 1st of the following year and is expected to accommodate up to 10,000 passengers per hour in each direction, linking Bukit Chagar in Johor Bahru with Woodlands North in Singapore.