KUALA LUMPUR: The first phase of the Mass Rapid Transit Line 3 (MRT3) is expected to open in 2028, while the entire project is slated for completion by 2030, the Dewan Rakyat was told today.
Transport Minister Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong said Cabinet had on March 4 approved the project, which covered the perimeters of Kuala Lumpur city and portions of densely-populated Ampang Jaya, Selangor.
"Following the technical feasibility study, the proposed alignment stretches along a 39km line in Kuala Lumpur and the remaining 12km in Selangor.
"The alignment will be connected to the existing rail network including the MRT1, MRT2, LRT (light-rail transit), monorail and KTM Komuter to form 10 new interchange stations for a more complete, integrated and efficient public transport system in the Klang Valley," he said in reply to a question from Hannah Yeoh (Segambut-PH-DAP).
Wee said 80 per cent of alignment would comprise elevated tracks and 20 per cent would go through underground tunnels.
He said the tender for MRT3 project would be open this year through five main packages which spans over a period of six to eight years.
He said the project would be financed through hybrid funds like bonds, government guarantees and deferred payments.
"The MRT project in the Klang Valley is among the big scale public projects by the government to enhance rail transportation networks to be more efficient, effective and safer, apart from reducing traffic congestion.
"The construction of the MRT3 project is expected to complete the metro rail network in the Klang Valley."
To a supplementary question from Ahmad Fahmi Mohamed Fadzil (Lembah Pantai-PH-PKR), Wee said the government would consider reviewing the existing transport structure upon the completion of MRT3.
"The implementation of vehicle congestion fee, for instance, will not only help address the traffic congestion issue, but also reduce environmental impact in the city.
"London has already reduced such congestion, with relaxations on electric vehicles. After 2030, we will review the parking fee structure in the city."