As part of the upgrading works, one track will be closed leaving only one track to be used by trains. — filepic
Heads up, KTM commuters.
Expect delays in the KTM Komuter services tomorrow as works on the Klang Valley Double Track Project (KVDT) will start.
The infrastructure and systems upgrading work will be done in four phases along the route from Tanjung Malim - Rawang - Port Klang.
The four phases are: Rawang-Simpang Batu and Kuala Lumpur-Port Klang; Simpang Batu- Kuala Lumpur-Sentul-Simpang Batu; and Port Klang-Salak Selatan.
The project is expected to be completed in 2019.
KTM Berhad Project Management general manager Ismail Said said that Electric Train Services (ETS), KTM Komuter and KTM Kargo operating along the Tanjung Malim-Rawang-Port Klang route would be affected and there would be changes on the travel schedule.
“This is because one track will be closed to make way for the upgrading works and only one track will be used for the trains,” he said during a briefing with the media at KL Sentral yesterday.
He added that the peak period for train service would remain the same, with 15-minute intervals.
“But the off-peak frequency, now at 30-minute interval, will go up to an hour,” he said.
Ismail added that KTM services nationwide would not be affected by the project.
Once completed, he said commuters could expect a 7.5-minute interval.
“The project will increase safety standards for passengers and train operations,” he said.
The 16 KTM stations along the route will also be upgraded with new toilets, surau and longer canopy for passengers to wait for their trains.
KTM Berhad Commuter Services general manager Azshidah Shah Shahari said train delays and cancellations were expected during the course of the project.
“We have plans to handle any contingencies that arise but we are not expecting any problems as we have notified the public about the upgrade, a month ago,” she said.
She also assured the public that there would be no increase in train fares after work was completed.
Those who are affected by the upgrading work could take alternative bus transport.
Public buses are available every 10 minutes on the Rawang-Medan Pasar route at RM3.70 one-way.
There will also be Bus Expressway Transit (BET) on the Bandar Tasik Puteri/Rawang-Medan Pasar route with three services in the morning and another three in the afternoon.
The fare is also RM3.70 one-way.
For bus routes and info, visit www.spad.gov.my. For train schedules and latest info, call 03-2267 1200 or visit www.ktmb.com.my
