The government has allocated RM16.81 million to upgrade 11 monorail stations in Kuala Lumpur with a focus on safety, comfort and attracting more users, according to Transport Minister Anthony Loke.
A total of RM6.81 million was used for the installation of Automatic Platform Doors (APG), following 10 incidents of passengers falling onto the tracks since 2017.
APG is currently operating at KL Sentral and Tun Sambanthan, while four other stations such as Maharajalela, Imbi, Hang Tuah, and Bukit Bintang are expected to be completed this week.
All stations will be upgraded by the end of the year.
Another RM10 million has been allocated to repair lifts and escalators, facilitating access especially for the disabled community and is expected to be completed by April 2024.
To speed up travel, three new trains will be added by 2026, reducing waiting times from seven to five minutes.
The monorail transport system is expected to carry 60,000 passengers this year with the improvements that have been made.
With an emphasis on safety, accessibility for the disabled, and faster travel, the KL monorail is now on track to become the people's preferred mode of transport.
However, only time will tell to what extent these changes will attract more users and meet their expectations.