In a move aimed at enhancing the Thaipusam experience for commuters, Anthony Loke, the Transport Minister, has announced an exciting initiative. Commuters can revel in complimentary rides on KTM Komuter trains for two days, on January 24th and 25th, coinciding with the Thaipusam festivities. Furthermore, the Transport Minister unveiled that the KTM Komuter train services will operate 24 hours a day, spanning from January 23rd to the 26th, providing an extended window for seamless travel.
The extension of operation hours primarily applies to the Batu Caves-Pulau Sebang-Batu Caves route and the Batu Caves-Port Klang-Batu Caves route. A total of 28 stations will be operational round the clock during this period, with an impressive allocation of 72 additional trains. Out of these, 33 trains will ply the Batu Caves-Pulau Sebang-Batu Caves route, while 39 trains will be dedicated to the Batu Caves-Port Klang-Batu Caves route.
The commencement of the additional commuter services is scheduled for 9.55 pm on January 23rd, starting from Pulau Sebang to Batu Caves stations, with a commendable one-hour train frequency. For the Batu Caves-Port Klang-Batu Caves route, the extra commuter services will begin at 11.39 pm. Minister Loke also highlighted the convenience for passengers from Port Klang, as they can now avail direct trips to Batu Caves after midnight.
Notably, January 25th will witness the provision of free rides for commuter users within the Klang Valley, presenting a generous gesture to the public. Anticipating a substantial surge in ridership, Minister Loke projected around 250,000 passengers during this festive period, with the peak expected on January 25th.
Highlighting the convenience factor, Minister Loke emphasized the proximity of a commuter station right next to Batu Caves, making it extremely convenient for the revelers attending Thaipusam celebrations. The move is a part of various initiatives undertaken during festive seasons, with the intention to support grand religious events like Thaipusam.
In addition to the extended KTM Komuter train services, the Electric Train Stations (ETS) will also experience additional train services to facilitate travel between the north and central peninsula from January 24th to the 26th. This includes two trips from Butterworth, Penang, to KL Sentral and back, as well as two trips from Padang Besar, Perlis, to Kuala Lumpur and back to Padang Besar.
To complement the enhanced train services, free RapidKL bus services will be available in Kuala Lumpur and Penang on January 24th and 25th. The routes cover significant areas such as trips from the Pasar Seni LRT station to Batu Caves, the Gombak LRT station to Batu Caves, and the Kampung Batu MRT station to Batu Caves.
For detailed information on schedules and routes, Minister Loke directed commuters to myrapid.com.my. Additionally, he shared that the Railway Assets Corporation (RAC) had successfully completed repair works on the passenger walkway from the commuter station to Batu Caves, enhancing safety and accessibility for the festive season.
In conclusion, the 24-hour free rides and extended services on KTM Komuter trains, coupled with additional offerings on ETS and RapidKL buses, are set to redefine the commuting experience during the Thaipusam festivities. This initiative not only reflects a commitment to public convenience but also underlines the government's support for the grandeur of Thaipusam celebrations at Batu Caves. Commuters are encouraged to embrace public transport, fostering a collective and seamless experience during this significant religious event.
Reference: Free rides on KTM Komuter for Thaipusam, trains to operate around the clock | The Star
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