Debate Arises Over Proposed Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link Connecting Iskandar Puteri and Tuas in Johor - Some Hail it as Groundbreaking, Others Consider it Impractical?
Heavy Morning Commuter Traffic at Gelang Patah Bus Station
Every day, the bus station in Gelang Patah, a suburban town in southwest Johor, witnesses a surge of commuters heading to nearby urban centers and cross-border destinations like Singapore during morning rush hour.
The bus station, a significant transit point for Causeway Link buses, experiences heavy traffic due to the high demand for buses to Johor Bahru and Singapore. Many daily trips depart as early as 5:00 AM, attracting a large number of passengers who are eager to start their workday.
The surge in passenger volume is further exacerbated by scheduled departures that cluster around typical office start times. The travel time, which is approximately an hour, can sometimes extend due to traffic or border clearance delays, prompting commuters to aim for earlier departures.
The area around Gelang Patah is home to industrial zones and new residential developments, creating a population base that relies heavily on bus transport to urban job centers in Johor Bahru or Singapore.
While occasional incidents like vehicle collisions near Gelang Patah along Jalan Gelang Patah–Pendas have been reported, they do not appear to be the primary cause of regular commuter traffic congestion but may occasionally worsen conditions due to temporary obstructions.
On August 5, a yellow Causeway Link bus arrived at the bus station, packed to its capacity. Kevin Foh, a resident of Gelang Patah in his 30s and a witness to the scene, stated that overcrowding during morning rush hour is a common occurrence. As a result, more than 100 people were waiting in line, and many had to wait for the next bus due to the overcrowding.
The bus station, while nondescript, plays a crucial role in the daily lives of many commuters, serving as a vital link between Johor and Singapore. Despite the challenges posed by overcrowding, the bus station continues to be a bustling hub of activity, a testament to its importance in connecting people and communities.
- The surge in commuter traffic at Gelang Patah Bus Station is not only attributed to public-transit demands, but also to the daily needs of those working in nearby urban industries, including finance and automotive sectors.
- The bus station's significance extends beyond transportation for commuters, as it also provides a financial lifeline for many, facilitating access to job opportunities in Johor and Singapore's burgeoning industries.
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