Pedestrianising parts of Johor Baru around RTS Link station proposed to reduce traffic congestion

The pedestrianising of large parts of Johor Baru around the RTS Link station has been proposed in order to reduce traffic congestion ahead of the station’s opening next year, reported The Star.

Former deputy international trade and industry minister, Ong Kian Ming said that at least 180 degrees around the Bukit Chagar RTS Link station should be set aside strictly for pedestrians.

“This is because the Johor Baru city centre is already congested as it is and the RTS Link is expected to transport up to 10,000 passengers per hour in each direction. If you hope for them to take e-hailing without having traffic dispersal modes like the Automated Rapid Transit and a good bus transport system out of the RTS Link, it is going to be gridlocked from day one,” Ong said.

Pedestrianising areas within a 500 metre radius of the station could help address dispersal challenges, while creating opportunities for commercial development and vibrant public spaces, he continued.

“This would create opportunities for development of public spaces where people can hold events and make the Johor Baru city centre a place that is alive, not just where people come and disperse to other places,” he said.

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