‘TOL VIEWS
With the LRT extension from Pasay to Parañaque now up and rolling, we expect our riding public to travel with greater comfort and ease. Travel time reduced equates to energy saved, stress avoided, added time for work and family. Thanks to the LRT extensions, Filipino train commuters can now travel easy, worry-free, and happy.
Light Railway Transit (LRT) extension projects undoubtedly changed the game for our everyday train riders, and our public transport system in general.
Apart from improving connectivity at great lengths, current and future LRT extension lines are perceived to positively impact urban travel, improve access to services, transport people and goods more efficiently, and bring forth such other benefits made possible by an effective public transport system.
LRT extension lines are like energies that set a chain reaction into motion. Faster and more direct routes to destinations encourage people to shift from the use of private vehicles to public transportation.
Traffic congestion is surely the first issue that these LRT lines can help address. Reduced use of vehicles also results in reduced carbon emission and pollution, and we already know how reduced greenhouse gas production leads to sustainability and resource conservation.
An efficient public transport system, while others may not realize, can greatly contribute to global efforts to mitigate the impacts of climate change.
Of course, as extended railway systems are indicative of a growing economy, these projects similarly help create jobs, raise property values and stimulate local businesses.
As people converge in these new transportation hubs, there will definitely be a similar convergence of interests and investments to develop these new transport points.
Jobs created are not only in the construction, management and operations aspect of these new railway lines. Jobs created may also be from businesses and investments growing in the area as a result of these extension projects.
Of course, the Light Railway Transit offers a much more cost-effective option to owning a private vehicle. Added to this, the safety and convenience of riding the LRT has been one of the many factors that contribute to an increasing LRT patronage in the recent years.
Ensuring mobility for students, seniors and other low-income sectors likewise improves their access to services and opportunities as was highlighted earlier.
Light Railway Transit extensions are vital investments that significantly impact the life of urban commuters and the entirety of our public transport system.
The positive gains we create from these developments pave the way for establishing the smart, sustainable, equitable communities we strive to build for the future generations of Filipinos.