Kuala Lumpur’s public transportation system is on the cusp of a significant transformation with the development of the MRT3 Circle Line, an ambitious infrastructure project aimed at enhancing connectivity across the Klang Valley. Set to close the loop on the city’s rail network, the MRT3 Circle Line will provide a crucial link between various existing rail lines, significantly improving the efficiency and convenience of commuting in Malaysia’s capital city.
An Overview of the MRT3 Circle Line
The MRT3 Circle Line will span 51 kilometers, making it one of the most extensive rail projects in the region. Of the total length, 39 kilometers will be elevated tracks, while the remaining 12 kilometers will be underground. The line will feature 32 stations, strategically positioned to maximize connectivity and accessibility for residents and visitors alike.
The Circle Line is designed to integrate seamlessly with the existing public transport infrastructure in Kuala Lumpur, creating a more interconnected and user-friendly network. It will link up with existing MRT, LRT, KTM, and Monorail lines at 10 key interchange stations, making it easier for passengers to switch between different lines and travel across the city without hassle.
Key Interchange Stations and Connectivity
One of the most significant advantages of the MRT3 Circle Line is its ability to connect with various other lines in Kuala Lumpur’s public transport system. This will provide commuters with greater flexibility and options for their daily travel. The key interchange stations include:
- MRT Kajang Line: Bukit Kiara Selatan and Taman Midah stations will connect the MRT3 Circle Line with the Kajang Line, providing easy access to the southern and central parts of Kuala Lumpur.
- MRT Putrajaya Line: The Titiwangsa and Kuchai stations will serve as interchange points with the Putrajaya Line, enhancing connectivity to northern and southeastern areas.
- LRT Kelana Jaya Line: Setiawangsa and Pantai Dalam stations will link the Circle Line with the Kelana Jaya Line, which runs from the western suburbs to the heart of the city.
- LRT Ampang Line: The Pandan Indah and Titiwangsa stations will connect the Circle Line to the Ampang Line, offering a direct route to the eastern and northeastern parts of the city.
- KL Monorail Line: The Titiwangsa station will also connect with the KL Monorail Line, providing a link to key commercial and tourist destinations in the city center.
- KTM Komuter Line: The Pantai Dalam and Kompleks Duta stations will serve as interchange points with the KTM Komuter Line, connecting commuters to the greater Klang Valley region.
- BRT Sunway Line: The City Bus Station at BRT Sunway Line will be another vital interchange, facilitating connections to the Sunway area, a bustling hub of education, healthcare, and entertainment.
MRT 3 Circle line stations:
- Bukit Kiara South (Interchange with new station on Kajang Line)
- Bukit Kiara (Provisional)
- Sri Hartamas
- Mont Kiara
- Bukit Segambut
- Taman Sri Sinar
- Dutamas
- Jalan Kuching (Interchange with Port Klang Line)
- Titiwangsa (Interchange with Ampang & Sri Petaling Line, KL Monorail and Putrajaya Line)
- Kampung Puah
- Jalan Langkawi
- Danau Kota
- Setapak
- Rejang
- Setiawanga (Interchange with Kelana Line)
- AU2
- Taman Hillview
- Tasik Ampang
- Kampung Pandan
- Pandan Indah (Interchange with Ampang Line)
- Taman Kencana
- Taman Cheras
- Taman Midah (Interchange with Kajang Line)
- Jalan Yaacob Latif
- Sri Permaisuri
- Salak Selatan (Interchange with Sri Petaling Line)
- Salak Jaya (Provisional)
- Kuchai (Interchange with Putrajaya Line)
- Jalan Klang Lama
- Pantai Dalam (Interchange with Port Klang Line)
- Pantai Permai
- Universiti (Interchange with Kelana Jaya Line)
- UM
The Impact of the MRT3 Circle Line on Commuting
The MRT3 Circle Line is expected to revolutionize commuting in Kuala Lumpur by offering faster, more efficient, and more convenient travel options. It is designed to accommodate up to 25,000 passengers per hour in each direction, significantly easing congestion during peak travel times. With each train capable of carrying 750 passengers, the Circle Line will play a crucial role in reducing traffic congestion and lowering the city’s carbon footprint.
A complete journey on the MRT3 Circle Line will take approximately 73 minutes, allowing passengers to traverse the entire loop in just over an hour. During peak hours, trains will run every four minutes, ensuring that commuters can travel with minimal waiting time. Even during off-peak hours, trains will arrive every seven minutes, maintaining a high level of service throughout the day.
Project Background and Timeline
The MRT3 Circle Line project has had a complex history, reflecting the challenges and opportunities of large-scale infrastructure development in Malaysia. Initially proposed several years ago, the project was shelved in 2018 by the Pakatan Harapan government due to financial constraints. However, recognizing the critical need for improved public transport in Kuala Lumpur, the project was revived by the Perikatan Nasional administration in 2021.
In 2022, MRT Corp CEO Datuk Mohd Zarif Hashim announced that the Circle Line would begin operations in phases starting in 2028, with full operation expected by 2030. The project’s original cost was estimated at RM68 billion, but efforts have been made to reduce this to below RM45 billion. This cost-saving initiative was highlighted in the revised Budget 2023, though no specific funding allocation for MRT3 was mentioned in the 2024 Budget.
Public Participation and Inspection
As the MRT3 Circle Line project moves closer to fruition, public participation is being actively encouraged to ensure that the final plans meet the needs and expectations of Kuala Lumpur’s residents. From September 2 to December 2, 2024, the alignment map for the Circle Line will be available for public inspection at 35 locations across the Klang Valley. These locations include eight MRT Info Kiosks and 27 MRT Info Trucks stationed at major sites.
The alignment map provides comprehensive details about the project, including site plans, station locations, and other relevant information. This public inspection is in compliance with Section 84 of the Land Public Transport Act 2010, ensuring transparency and allowing residents to voice their opinions and concerns.
For those unable to visit the physical display locations, an online version of the alignment map is available on the MRT3 microsite. The microsite also offers an interactive 360° virtual tour of the Circle Line, allowing the public to explore the project from the comfort of their homes.
Conclusion
The MRT3 Circle Line represents a significant leap forward in Kuala Lumpur’s public transportation infrastructure. By closing the loop on the city’s rail network, the Circle Line will enhance connectivity, reduce travel times, and contribute to a more sustainable and efficient public transport system. As the project progresses towards its 2028 phased opening, the involvement of Kuala Lumpur’s residents through public inspection and feedback will be crucial in shaping a transport system that meets the needs of a growing and dynamic city.
