Traffic congestion in Kuala Lumpur has become a major issue, with millions of vehicles entering the city daily, causing long delays and frustration for motorists. In an effort to address this growing problem, road safety expert Assoc Prof Dr Law Teik Hwa from Universiti Putra Malaysia has proposed the implementation of surcharges on motorists in single or low-occupancy vehicles entering Kuala Lumpur city.
According to Dr Law, a study conducted in April using the Automatic Real-time Incident Detection System (Arids) revealed that at least 2.2 million vehicles enter Kuala Lumpur during peak hours, contributing to the congestion on busy roads such as Jalan Sungai Besi, Jalan Kuching, and Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah. This influx of vehicles not only leads to traffic jams but also results in a significant financial burden for Klang Valley motorists, who spend approximately RM6.8 billion annually on petrol while stuck in traffic during their daily commute.
To alleviate traffic congestion and reduce the burden on motorists, Dr Law suggests implementing surcharges based on various factors. One proposed method is Variable Charging Based on Occupancy, which would levy higher charges on vehicles with fewer passengers, incentivizing carpooling and reducing single-occupancy vehicle trips. Time of Day Pricing is another suggestion, where higher charges would apply during peak hours to manage traffic flow more efficiently throughout the day.
In addition to these methods, Dr Law recommends Integration with Public Transport, offering incentives or exemptions for vehicles that integrate with public transport networks. This could include access to park-and-ride facilities or preferential lanes for buses and carpools. Dynamic Adjustment, a system that adjusts charges based on real-time traffic conditions, is also proposed to ensure the policy remains responsive and effective in managing traffic flow.
While these surcharges may seem drastic, Dr Law emphasizes the importance of reducing private vehicle usage in Kuala Lumpur, where nearly 90% of daily road users commute alone. By encouraging the use of public transport and implementing measures to control vehicle numbers, traffic congestion could be significantly reduced, leading to safer streets and more efficient traffic flow.
In conclusion, Dr Law’s proposal for surcharges on motorists in single or low-occupancy vehicles entering Kuala Lumpur city aims to address the pressing issue of traffic congestion in the Klang Valley. By implementing various charging methods and incentivizing public transport usage, authorities can work towards creating a more sustainable and efficient transportation system for the city.