By Yasmin Ramlan
GOMBAK, Oct 29 — The state government plans to connect the proposed Selangor Rail Line with the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) alignment some time after 2026, ensuring better and wider public transport connectivity.
Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari said this is in addition to the ECRL Gombak station, which will serve as an integrated terminal upon the project’s completion, connecting with the existing light-rail transit (LRT) network.
“The Gombak station is already an integrated terminal, allowing connectivity with the current LRT alignment.
“In the future, Selangor plans to introduce what we call the Selangor Rail Line. Our plan includes at least two stations, one in Kuala Selangor and possibly one in Klang, that will connect with the existing ECRL alignment.
“This will link the entire rail network after 2026,” he said during a press conference after the ECRL Gombak Tunnel breakthrough ceremony today.
Earlier in his speech, Amirudin expressed hope that the Selangor Rail Line will be realised, due to its strong potential to drive economic growth along the west coast.
[caption id="attachment_377798" align="aligncenter" width="1175"]
Menteri Besar Dato' Seri Amirudin Shari (front, centre) touring the 959-metre East Coast Rail Line tunnel under construction during its Tunnel breakthrough ceremony at Kampung Batu 12, Gombak, on October 29, 2024. — Picture by HAFIZ OTHMAN/MEDIA SELANGOR[/caption]
Plans for a new railway line connecting Klang to the northern region of the state was first mooted as part of the Selangor Pakatan Harapan election manifesto ahead of the state election in August last year.
In July, state executive councillor for investment, trade, and mobility Ng Sze Han said the high-impact project will develop and connect areas like Kapar, Jeram, Kuala Selangor, Sekinchan, and Sabak Bernam.
Meanwhile, when asked about the state’s long-term plans for tunnel maintenance in areas prone to natural disasters, the Menteri Besar said Selangor has developed comprehensive strategies to ensure its safety and upkeep, with a specific focus on regions at risk.
The Gombak MP said the relevant authorities will also conduct frequent monitoring and maintenance to ensure the tunnel safety for motorists and the public.
“Based on complaints and public feedback, as well as input from our officers, the authorities must follow the process and constantly monitor the project’s construction,” he said.
The permanent lining for the Gombak Tunnel has progressed to a commendable 892 metres prior to today’s breakthrough ceremony.
Excavation works for Gombak tunnel commenced in June last year and were scheduled for breakthrough in the fourth quarter of this year. All related civil works for the Gombak Tunnel are expected to be fully completed by March 2025.
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A view of the interior of the 959-metre East Coast Rail Line tunnel under construction in Kampung Batu 12, Gombak, on October 29, 2024. — Picture by HAFIZ OTHMAN/MEDIA SELANGOR[/caption]
