The Perak state government has revealed that a light rail transit (LRT) system for the city of Ipoh is on its development framework. This is made known by state housing, tourism and local government committee chairman Datuk Nolee Ashilin Mohammed Radzi earlier today during the officiating of the Publicity and Public Participation Programme for the Ipoh City Local Plan Draft 2035 and launching of the Greater Ipoh Tourism Region Action Plan and Branding.
Nolee said that the state will first develop a new transportation hub around the Ipoh Railway Station which would later accommodate the new LRT system. “It involves an area of 60 hectares,” she noted. “However, the cost and development period of the transportation hub are still being studied.”
Aside from the new LRT system, Ipoh would also introduce an integrated transportation system which would consist of rapid transit and regular buses, a tram, and taxis. Nolee added that the new hub aims to improve the city’s public transport system for both its residents and tourists, as well as to solve traffic congestion and boost real estate development.
Since the new LRT system is still merely a proposal, details such as potential station locations, coverage, and expected date of completion are still undecided. Nevertheless, should the state proceed with this plan, this would make Ipoh the second city in Malaysia to feature a LRT system after Kuala Lumpur.
(Source: Bernama)
