Double Deckers for Penang

[OLYMPIAN]

http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?se ... %2F7106033

GEORGE TOWN: Double-decker Rapid Penang buses, which can take up to 100 passengers each, will ply major routes at the end of next year, said Rapid Penang chief executive officer Azhar Ahmad (pic).

He said these double deckers and 140 more normal-sized stage buses would be brought in under the 10th Malaysian Plan.

Azhar said Penang would be the first state in Malaysia to have double-decker stage buses.

“These double deckers are of the same width but higher than our current buses. They are very cost-effective,” he said, adding that current Rapid Penang buses could carry up to 60 passengers each.

Azhar explained that these double-deckers would hit the streets in stages to ply routes in high-density areas like Air Itam, Paya Terubong, Bayan Baru and Bukit Gedung.

“We will not impose higher fares for those using these buses,” Azhar told reporters during a Hari Raya open house held by Rapid Penang at the Weld Quay Bus Depot here yesterday.

On a separate matter, Azhar proposed to the state government that free bus services run on the first two days of the coming Chinese New Year.

“Many people return to Penang during the festive season and if the proposal is approved, we will be able to reduce traffic congestion,” he said.

He has also proposed a similar bus service from the mainland to the Bayan Lepas Free Trade Zone.

“This service, involving three buses, will operate like the Central Area Transit shuttle buses as we want to reduce congestion on the bridge,” he said.

He added that if approved, the ‘Park and Ride’ system would also be implemented on the mainland.

“The system will allow bus commuters to park their cars in the bus station and ride the bus to the island,” he said.