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SHAH ALAM - The first two days of operations for the LRT3 Shah Alam Line has triggered widespread discussion online, with Malaysian netizens reporting noticeably smoother traffic conditions along major highways in the Klang Valley.
While authorities continue to monitor passenger flow and system performance, commuters have taken to social media to share early impressions of reduced congestion, particularly along the Federal Highway and the Damansara–Puchong Expressway (LDP).
Prasarana Malaysia Bhd earlier confirmed that the launch of the new rail line proceeded smoothly, with only minor operational issues as the system adjusted to initial commuter demand.
The operator is currently observing travel patterns to refine services, including feeder connectivity and interchange flow, while targeting long-term ridership of up to 67,000 passengers daily.
However, beyond official assessments, it is public sentiment on social media platforms such as Threads that has drawn attention, with users linking the new rail service to immediate traffic improvements.
A user, @im_tristupe, observed what he described as unusually smooth traffic conditions during peak hours.
“The traffic today even on LDP at peak hour towards Federal Highway was surprisingly good. Did LRT3 do all this magic?”
Similarly, @zikryzamir highlighted the broader implication for rail infrastructure expansion.
“This is why we need more LRT and MRT, 1 line singlehandedly ends the traffic jam in no time.”
Another user, @shaikazrin, reported comparable observations along the LDP corridor, stating:
“I noticed it too on the LDP.”
However, not all users viewed the situation as a long-term structural change.
@chan.munfei offered a more measured perspective, referencing previous experiences with the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system and cautioning that early improvements may not persist.
“This was also observed when MRT1 first opened, where traffic along the Cheras–Kajang Expressway initially became smoother.
“However, over time, congestion gradually returned as population density increased, early trial users stopped relying on the service after a few weeks and some commuters who initially switched after hearing about reduced congestion eventually returned to driving.
“For LRT3 to sustain long-term ridership, the key lies in solving first-and last-mile connectivity issues and improving train frequency.
“Even so, its role as a convenient shortcut between Bukit Bintang and Glenmarie is already attracting significant ridership, as it effectively functions as a useful alternative bypass for many commuters,” the social media user said.
Other users echoed similar experiences of reduced congestion.
@thirumolly.thennarasu expressed surprise at the apparent shift in traffic patterns.
“Is everyone taking the new LRT Shah Alam? Because the traffic on the highway is good, I like it!”
@aimiqilaa also noted a milder-than-usual traffic flow on the Federal Highway.
“Today the Federal Highway's traffic jam was jammed a bit only, not like its usual bad traffic jam.”
Meanwhile, @norahjnasir credited the new rail service directly for the smoother commute.
“The Federal Highway today was smooth, thank you LRT 3.”
Another road user, @uknow_whoyouare, described a mixed experience depending on location and time of travel.
“Federal Highway from Batu 3 at around 6:30am today, the road was clear, it felt like a school holiday. Only when I arrived at the Mentari area did I see more cars.”
In a separate comment that reflected public appreciation for the long-delayed infrastructure project, @munirah.kantin acknowledged both past and present political administrations.
“Thank you Datuk Seri Najib Razak for starting this project, thank you as well to Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for completing this LRT 3 project.”
Prasarana has also indicated that early ridership—estimated between 5,000 and 10,000 passengers on the first day—reflects encouraging uptake for a weekday launch.
It is aiming for gradual growth as commuters integrate the new line into their daily routines.
The LRT3 Shah Alam Line is expected to significantly improve east-west connectivity across Klang Valley, linking densely populated corridors and integrating with existing rail networks such as the Kelana Jaya Line.
Authorities have also maintained free rides for the public until July 31 as part of the introductory phase.
