Skip to main content

Advertisement

Advertisement

Proposed overhaul of Bukit Panjang LRT: Residents speak up about their needs, offer ideas

News that the Government is evaluating a proposal to shut down the Bukit Panjang LRT rail network for major upgrading works (“Govt mulling years-long shutdown to overhaul Bt Panjang LRT: Khaw”; Oct 17) invited many comments from Facebook users.

Mr Khaw’s comment about the Bukit Panjang LRT has opened a Pandora’s box by suggesting the Government had spent large amounts of funds without serious thought and robust planning. TODAY file photo

Mr Khaw’s comment about the Bukit Panjang LRT has opened a Pandora’s box by suggesting the Government had spent large amounts of funds without serious thought and robust planning. TODAY file photo

Follow TODAY on WhatsApp

News that the Government is evaluating a proposal to shut down the Bukit Panjang LRT rail network for major upgrading works (“Govt mulling years-long shutdown to overhaul Bt Panjang LRT: Khaw”; Oct 17) invited many comments from Facebook users.

Some had no confidence that the system will be glitch-free even after the improvement works, while others were agreeable to the idea but wanted alternative modes of transport to serve them in the interim. A handful also proposed that residents be consulted before the Government makes its final decision on the matter.

Shut it down. I used to live there and find that it is not worth the cost of repairing it. Why not convert it into a sky bridge and let the people jog/walk/stroll and even cycle around the estate instead? DARYL LOW

Worried that after closing it for three years, everything will remain the same when it opens. LEO LEAP

For transportation within CCK (Chua Chu Kang) and BP (Bukit Panjang) estate, bus would be a better option, especially when many new roads and HDB (Housing and Development Board) flats have been built in CCK and BP in recent years that are not served by LRT. Tear it down, expand the road and improve the bus network instead. DEREK CHUA

A little late for three-year closure when so many BTO (Built-to-Order) flats have sprung up around the LRT stations. I’d suggest before shutting down the system, make sure there’s a network of buses to cover these areas. Way too many people depend on the LRT for their daily commute. Otherwise, look into shutting it down section by section. Maybe three stations for half a year. BENNY ONG

There should be proper backup. Provide a new network of buses to take over the whole or sections of the LRT. Maybe sweeten the deal with subsidised fares, since the Minister confirmed that it was a poor decision (“afterthought”) and bad design. Residents should not be made to suffer because policy-makers made bad decisions. CONRAD LI

Let the residents decide, conduct a vote similar to lift or flat upgrading. ROBERT KOH

If they are going to shut it down, they should ensure that there are more buses that go to Bukit Panjang and CCK. I only have one bus (67) that goes to Bukit Panjang and its frequency is pathetic, so I take the LRT every day. LACIE LUSIANA LIM

Agree that they have to conduct a survey with residents of the neighbourhood and come out with the best alternative, but bear in mind that no system in the world can be perfect. CHAN RAYMOND

If you can do without the LRT for three years, you can basically do without it forever. MAYBELLINE TAN

I am not sure this major repair or modifications is under political pressure... and it will be the same outcome. HO YEE FOOK

Well, I better not give my opinion or else they will feel pressured to accede to my request, and then 10 years down the road, say that they shut down/upgrade/revamp the LRT due to political pressure. CYRA LOTUS

*Comments were first posted on TODAY’s Facebook page and are edited for language and clarity.

Read more of the latest in

Advertisement

Advertisement

Stay in the know. Anytime. Anywhere.

Subscribe to get daily news updates, insights and must reads delivered straight to your inbox.

By clicking subscribe, I agree for my personal data to be used to send me TODAY newsletters, promotional offers and for research and analysis.