The three out of six Light Rail Transit (LRT) lines in Sarawak that have been identified are expected to be operational by 2024.
Chief Minister YAB Datuk Patinggi (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg announced that the three lines that has been identified are Kota Samarahan to Sungai Batu to Damai (Line 1), Serian to Senari (Line 2) and the City Dispersal Line (Line 3).
“The estimated duration for the construction of these lines are approximately five years, dependent on the procurement strategy and also allowing for long lead items such as Rolling Stock (trains) manufacture and delivery,” he said during a press conference at Wisma Bapa on March 29th adding that the remaining lines will be completed at a later stage.
The LRT project is expected to be implemented in 2019, after the feasibility study is completed.
The first line or Damai Line which covers 48 per cent of current travel demands for Kuching city connects from is approximately 62.4 km in length with 28 stations. The line will start at Rembus in Kota Samarahan, where the depot is proposed and end at Damai via Sungai Batu.
Meanwhile, the second line or Serian Line which covers 30 per cent of current travel demands for Kuching city is approximately 82.0 km in length with 26 stations. The second line will have an interchange station with Kota Samarahan-Damai option at the Simpang Tiga Roundabaout.
The third line or Kuching City Line which covers the Kuching city dispersal line is approximately 10.8 km in length with 13 stations.
“The proposed city dispersal line will be an at-grade tram system which can better navigate urban street, has less intrusive stops and integrates well into the concept of a pedestrianised urban landscape,” said YAB Datuk Patinggi (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari.
