Tan Kin Lian - Perspectives Two options for the High Speed Rail between Singapore and Kuala Lumpur

Some people said that they like to take the train from Singapore and go all the way to Kuala Lumpur without having to change to another train. Of course, this would be preferred option if the two governments find it to be feasible and is able to agree on the cooperation.

However, if this is not economically feasible, I had suggested that the HSR connect to Bukit Chagar. Singapore travellers will have to take the RTS to Bukit Chagar and change to the High Speed Rail to Kuala Lumpur.

Some people argued that it is a hassle to change trains. This is actually a small matter. Even when travelling within Singapore, we have to change trains at interchanges and the walking distance can be quite long.

When we take a flight, we often have to change a plane at the connecting airport and the walking distance is also long. But we accept it as being unavoidable ad it is cheaper to operate a transport network with interchanges.

The other issue that I had addressed is the difficulty of getting the HSR to enter run in an urban area, such as JB city center. The HSR need the track to be designed to strict specification, to maintain a high speed.

Fortunately, there is a solution, and this is adopted in many cities. When operating a highly built area, the HSR slows down to a lower speed. For example, this would allow the track to be elevated and follow a highway, to avoid costly land acquisition and dislocation.

Tan Kin Lian
 

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