KTM Update: Special Komuter train services for Thaipusam (Update #2)

Updated with additional articles!

TRANSIT takes note of the announcement of special Komuter train services to Batu Caves station on the occasion of Thaipusam.

• New rail tracks pose a problem for devotees (The Star);
• New railway stations provide better facilities (NST);
• Extra commuter services for Thaipusam (The Star);
• Thaipusam: Security beefed up at Batu Caves (The Sun);
• Additional commuter services for Thaipusam (NST);
• Special Train Services For Thaipusam (Bernama).

For the Thaipusam celebration in Batu Caves on Saturday, KTMB will provide 208 special train services and 72 additional KTM Komuter trains from Friday to Sunday.

The two-way special train services will be available from Batu Caves and Sentul with 30-minute frequency.

“KTMB has also planned for 208 train services this time compared to only 98 last year, as more visitors are expected in views of the celebration falling on a weekend followed by a public holiday on Monday,” Mohd Hidir said.

It is hoped that the additional train services will help reduce traffic congestion in the city.

From Friday to Sunday, 72 additional KTM Komuter services will be available around the clock for the Rawang-KL Sentral-Rawang, Seremban-Sentul-Seremban and Port Klang-Sentul-Port Klang lines.

“Usually the services end at midnight, but for Thaipusam, commuter services will be extended until 6am with 72 additional services at a 30-minute frequency,” said Mohd Hidir.

TRANSIT Says:

While it is disappointing to note that the extension to Batu Caves will not be in place and operating until later in April 2010, TRANSIT is happy to note that KTM Komuter is going to offer a whole new level of train shuttle service.

We would like to urge as many people as possible to use the special trains from Sentul to Batu Caves, or take the additional trains overnight, rather than taking their cars.

Further information on the Sentul – Batu Caves extension project can be found here.