The elevated pedestrian bridge connecting KLCC to Pavilion Mall in Kuala Lumpur. — Filepic
KUALA Lumpur, like many other modern cities, faces increasing traffic congestion and challenges in providing efficient last-mile connectivity for commuters.
While public transport systems such as the MRT, LRT, Monorail, KTM Komuter and buses serve large portions of the city and the suburbs, first- and last-mile connectivity remains an elusive goal.
A cost-effective solution to this growing issue is an elevated walkway network similar, for example, to the Moorgate elevated walkways of London in the United Kingdom.
I fondly recall using this walkway daily at lunch time as well as during the long and warm summer months.
With this in mind, more efforts are required to establish a comprehensive elevated walkway network in Kuala Lumpur.
Encouraging walking as part of a daily routine is an essential component of healthy living.
By providing safe, comfortable and well-connected pedestrian pathways, elevated walkways can help reduce dependency on motor vehicles for short trips.
The habit of walking not only improves physical health but also contributes to reduction in air pollution and carbon emissions, creating a more sustainable and liveable city.
Elevated walkways offer a safe and sheltered route for pedestrians, away from busy traffic, and can be designed to be accessible for people of all ages and abilities.
In a tropical city like Kuala Lumpur, these walkways would provide much-needed protection from the elements, encouraging more people to walk no matter the weather.
While large-scale projects like the MRT3 are crucial for the city’s long-term development and connectivity, a more immediate and cost-effective solution can be found in elevated pedestrian paths.
These walkways can be designed to integrate with existing public transport systems, offering seamless connectivity from stations to offices, shopping malls and residential areas.
By implementing well-thought-out pedestrian networks, the need for additional road infrastructure may be reduced, alleviating congestion in busy areas.
By investing in a comprehensive elevated walkway network, the government has an opportunity to leave a long-lasting legacy of accessible, healthy and sustainable urban transport infrastructure.
With relatively lower costs, shorter construction timelines and potential to enhance pedestrian mobility, it can offer practical and immediate improvements to Kuala Lumpur’s urban fabric and foster a healthier, more environmentally friendly lifestyle for its residents.
YD
Saudi Arabia
