LETTERS: The launch of phase 1 of the Putrajaya Mass Rapid Transit Line on June 16 is a welcome addition for Klang Valley commuters.
However, until the opening of phase 2 next year, this new line will be a line to nowhere for many.
The line terminates in Kampung Batu, far short of the city centre, where many from Sri Damansara, Kepong and Jinjang would be headed to and from work.
While there are GoKL buses and MRT feeder buses from Kampung Batu, what should be the main connector to the city, the KTM Komuter Batu Caves to Sungai Gadut line, is a disappointment.
It is a missed opportunity to support phase 1 of the Putrajaya MRT Line because during peak times, there is a Komuter train only about every half an hour and, worse still, only once an hour during off-peak times and weekends.
I understand that the frequency of trains is affected by the Klang Valley Double Tracking rehabilitation project from KL Sentral to the south.
However, KTM could run a shuttle service between Batu Caves and KL Sentral, in addition to the current services, using three-car units every 15 to 20 minutes to provide a better connection for the Putrajaya line commuters.
As the rehabilitation project between Simpang Batu and KL Sentral is already completed, track capacity shouldn't be a problem.
I understand there is a shortage of serviceable Class 92 SCS trains. Instead, Class 83 or class 81 EMUs would be able to provide this connection.
Also, since Batu Caves is at the end of the line, this shuttle service would also serve to make travel to this attraction easier for all.
To the KTMB chief executive officer, this is your chance to get people to use the Komuter services that you were lamenting about.
Remember, frequency is important to workers and students.
ALAN BLIGH
Kuala Lumpur
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times