Public transport is essential to society as it provides a reliable transport system. With that in mind Sarawak Metro has implemented the Kuching Urban Transportation System (KUTS) which, according to state deputy transport minister Datuk Dr Jerip Susil, is expected to commence in the year 2028.
The purpose of the KUTS system is tackle the traffic congestion on the city’s roads. As of April, the project has reached completion of 28.89% compared to the scheduled 33.86 percent added the transport minister in respond to See Chee How (Batu Lintang Assemblyman) question today.
At the heart of KUTS are hydrogen-powered, Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) trackless trams. These trams will run on rubber tyres within dedicated lanes, combining the flexibility of buses with the efficiency of rail systems.
The first two units, currently under construction in China, are expected to arrive in Kuching by year-end. Each ART vehicle measures 30.2 metres in length, 2.65 metres in width, and 3.7 metres in height. Designed to carry up to 300 passengers, they can reach speeds of up to 70 km/h.
There are three lines in this project known as Blue, Red and Green. The Blue Line runs approximately 27.6km, connecting Rembus in Kota Samarahan to Hikmah Exchange in Kuching city centre. The Red Line spans about 12.3km, linking Kuching Sentral to Pending. Meanwhile, the Green Line covers roughly 30km, stretching from Pending to Damai Central.
Phase 1 of the KUTS project will roll out in stages, featuring three ART lines spanning a total of 69.9km with 31 stations. The first stage will see the launch of the Blue Line’s initial section, running from Rembus to Riveria, with construction expected to begin in the fourth quarter of this year.
When asked about stations along Jalan Wan Alwi, it was confirmed that two elevated ART stations will be built in the area. Dr Jerip stated that these stations will be part of Phase One of the KUTS project and located within the Batu Lintang constituency.
“The entire stretch of Jalan Wan Alwi is constructed as an elevated alignment or lane, with two elevated stations, one in front of Vivacity Megamall and the other near Kuching Lodge School,” he added. “Meanwhile, there will be one station in front of the Public Works Department divisional office with an elevated design for Batu Lintang area,” he said.
(Source: Sarawak Metro/The Star)
