LETTERS: Kudos to the government for reverting to the earlier rail transport policy. Many are encouraged by the government's stand to expand the rail network.
We talk a lot about investing more in public transport. Rail is the most efficient and best way to move people and goods.
As the electric mode of rail transport becomes more viable, rail is also the best way to reduce the nation's carbon footprint.
We also talk a lot about achieving net zero by 2050.
These noble aims should be reflected in our transport policy, because the transport sector is one of the biggest contributors to carbon emissions.
The East Coast Rail Line project, which links the east coast states with the capital, will boost the east coast's economy.
Even the high-speed rail (HSR) project, which has been shelved, should be reconsidered.
Many are encouraged that the government has revived the Mass Rapid Transit 3 project.
The announcement about the start of phase one of the Mass Rapid Transit 2 Putrajaya line is welcome news
The Gemas-Johor-Baru electric line reaching completion is more good news.
Many believe rail projects should be widened to include Penang, Ipoh and Johor Baru.
The largest source of emissions is transport, especially cars. As recommended by the Smart City Framework a few years ago, the investment in public transport should be intensified.
What better way to do that than the investment in electric rail.
This can reduce traffic.
Rail can also be an effective way to disperse the urban population. We saw how urban living was not helpful when dealing with the Covid-19 pandemic.
More rail links should be considered for population centres near the Klang Valley, including southwards to Seremban, northwards to Tanjung Malim, Perak, and eastwards to Bentong, Pahang.
An investment in rail should form part of the national agenda.
PROFESSOR DATUK DR AHMAD IBRAHIM
Tan Sri Omar Centre of STI Policy, UCSI University
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times