DEC 3— We refer to a commentary (click here to read ) by your columnist, Prana Ganesan, published on November 28, which we feel that there is a need for us to make the necessary corrections to some of the points that he made. We sincerely believed that it is necessary as all the published articles would be documented and others would make them as reference and in high probability, repeat the inaccurate facts.

First and foremost, we would like to point out that the MRT and LRT are managed by two different organisations . While the LRT is operated by Rapid Rail Sdn Bhd – a business unit of Syarikat Prasarana Negara Berhad (Prasarana) and under the brand name of RapidKL, MRT is managed by MRT Corp, a special purpose establishment set up by the Government to carry out the project.

Hence, it was inaccurate and improper for the writer to link or associate the construction works of MRT to Prasarana or RapidKL. MRT does not belong to Prasarana, as suggested by the writer.

In regard to comments on effect of the MRT construction works, we agreed that these works do contribute to traffic congestion and in turn, affect RapidKL bus operations. In managing this situation, Rapid Bus Sdn Bhd – the operator of RapidKL bus services – had adjusted accordingly its bus schedule to ensure consistent service, though at a longer headway. Putting in additional buses, as suggested by the writer, would be ideal. But, it is something that we are unable to do currently due to the problem on bus drivers’ shortage, which is hitting the industry.

We thank you for your kind understanding and cooperation.

* This statement is issued  by Azhar Ghazali, Senior Vice President, Group Communications and Strategic Marketing Department, Syarikat Prasarana Negara Berhad (Prasarana).

** This is the personal opinion of the writer or his organisation and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malay Mail Online.