KL-Padang Besar ETS must get approval of SPAD - Syed Hamid

The Kuala Lumpur-Padang Besar, Perlis Electric Train Service (ETS) route can only operate after getting the approval of the Land Public Transport Commission (SPAD).

SPAD chairman Tan Sri Syed Hamid Albar said SPAD was still inspecting the ETS trains and railway tracks.

"We have told them already (postponement of operation), but we have to take action if they flout the law, we need to inspect quite a number of their tracks and trains," he told reporters after launching Mobile Operation Vehicles (MoVs) belonging to SPAD here, today.

He said SPAD would give its approval after ensuring public safety is assured when using the service.

On Thursday, KTMB announced that the 329km ETS service would start operating tomorrow and could be used by those returning home for Aidilfitri.

In the meantime, Syed Hamid said SPAD was expected to issue 400 Temporary Conversion Licence (LPS) for additional bus services for the Aidilfitri festive season.

"We issued more than 300 LPS last year and we expect to issue more or the same as last year," he said.

On the hike in bus fares, he said any increase must be approved by the Cabinet.

Earlier, when launching two MOV units, Syed Hamid said the vehicles would function as SPAD mobile operation centres with office facilities including video recorder, closed circuit television, infrared camera and internet facility.

"We will use the MOVs to issue notices directly to public vehicles flouting the traffic laws on the road without having to refer to the SPAD headquarters first. The two units will operate in the Klang Valley," he added.