Taking the LRT

This is my first blog entry...and my topic will be on the LRT system in KL

I normally drive but a few weeks ago, I took the Putra LRT downtown to run some errands.
Completed errand at about 6++ pm, peak period.

The Masjid Jamek LRT station was packed with people, queuing to purchase tickets from the ticketing machines and counter.
It took me more than 15 min to get my ticket (and that too, because I have coins with me) and another 15 min to get into the train
It was unpleasant experience for me - the concourse area was hot and filled with "human" smell. The train was no better.
I really symphatise with commuters who have to go thru this every working day

I dont think it will cost a lot to improve the situation at major stations, esp during the peak period.
For e.g., it would greatly help if there were more ticket vending machines and air-conditioning in the councourse area.
Afer all, this is a major station, with most commuters. If I remember correctly, there were less than 10 ticket vending machines
at the MJ station and a few of the them spoilt, and some only accept coins.

Add say a few more machines that accept both coins and notes at major stations like Masjid Jamek, KLCC, Ampnag Park
and install air-con for the concourse areas. The capital cost of ticket vending machine is probably USD 50-60K per machine (see link http://english.seoul.go.kr/today/news/traffic/1247519_3327.html ), depending on complexity of fare structure and other factors. Say another 15 machines are added at various major locations. This will cost Syarikat Prasana Negara (the owner of Putra LRT) some USD 750K or RM 2.5m. Say installation cost is about another RM1-2 mil. Total cost ~ RM 5 mil.

Surely a budget of RM 5mil to somewhat improve the comfort of commuters (who still have to wait for the trains) is NOT too much to ask?

Come one, Syarikat Prasana Negara ! Do something for your customers