MELAKA TRAM ON TRACK

Email    Print 17 November 2011 | last updated at 01:06am
Tram project on track

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MALACCA The proposed RM272 million Melaka Tram project linking Ayer Keroh and Banda Hilir is the most effective mode of transportation to overcome the traffic woes here, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Ali Rustam said yesterday.
  "We have already obtained the green light from the Land Public Transport Commission (SPAD) for the project.

  "In October, the state had written to the Federal Government, through Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak, for approval," he said.

  "We are now awaiting the approval from the prime minister.

  "Once it is obtained, we will exhibit the letter together with  complete details of the project.

  "This is  to show the public that the project would bring great benefit to them."

  The Melaka Tram project is  a joint venture between Mrails International Sdn Bhd and Chief Minister Incorporated (CMI).

  The service would have 23 stops along a 40km-route from Ayer Keroh to Banda Hilir, the heart of the historical city.

  It is estimated that 250,000 passengers would use the trams monthly.

  Annual revenue would be in the region of RM20 million.

  The tram would  go through Bukit Baru, Peringgit, Jalan Munsyi Abdullah, Bandar Hilir and Taman Melaka Raya.

  Ali Rustam was speaking to reporters when he was asked to comment on the unsuccessful bid by Betty Chew Gek Cheng (DAP-Kota Laksamana) to have the Melaka Tram project shelved through a motion she had tabled at the Malacca State Legislative Assembly.

  The motion was rejected by the house.

  Ali Rustam said the Traffic Impact Assessment (TIA) and the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)  on the Melaka Tram had also been completed and the necessary approvals had been given.

  "Studies have also shown that the Melaka Tram would be used by  109,559 people from Monday to Friday.

  "The figure is expected to soar to 210,160 during the weekends," he said.