The government says it is mulling the idea of introducing a vehicle congestion charge in cities like Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Johor Bahru, with a feasability study presently being conducted on it. However, not all the ‘participating’ cities – and their state governments – think they are ready for such a move
Johor certainly thinks that it isn’t, with state executive councillor Mohamad Fazli Mohamad Salleh saying that Johor Bahru is not ready for the proposed congestion charge, as The Star reports.
“(For now) Johor Baru is not ready for this, as we have yet to have a comprehensive master plan to overcome traffic congestion,” he said, adding that the proposed system would only work if an efficient public transport system was in place.
The works, transportation, infrastructure and communications committee chairman said that congestion charges might not be able to solve the existing traffic problem unless road users are given options, such as rebates for those who take the bus instead of driving.
“Road users should also be offered park and ride options outside the central business district before such a policy can be implemented,” he said. He however added that the state welcomes such a study, as the planning for such a system involves various quarters, including the state government and local councils.
“The matter does not just cover traffic congestion. It involves the environment and the costs imposed on the public if they were to take public transportation or ride-hailing services, among others,” he said.
Likewise, Penang is on the same page, stating that proper road systems and efficient public transportation are needed for a congestion fee to be implemented in the state.
“In order for us to implement creative means of reducing private vehicle usage, such as congestion charges and dedicated bus lanes, we first need to have alternatives. Having an LRT is a good start, and additional spinal highways such as the PIL1 are another good alternative,” said state transport, infrastructure and digital committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari.
Zairil said that without these alternatives, implementing a congestion fee would be almost impossible. He added that the current road network system on Penang island is underdeveloped due to a shortage of land space and the urban heritage landscape.
Looking to sell your car? Sell it with Carro.