The Future of Transportation: How MRT and LRT Construction Is Changing the Face of Metropolitan Cities

Positive Impact on Urbanization and City Planning

The development of MRT and LRT brought various significant changes, including:

• Improved Accessibility and Mobility : Rail-based mass transit offers a fast, efficient, and reliable alternative for commuters. It allows for smoother movement of people and goods, reduces travel times, and ultimately, increases a city's economic productivity.

• Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) : MRT and LRT stations are no longer simply places for passengers to board and disembark. Governments and developers are now implementing the TOD concept by building integrated residential, office, and commercial spaces around stations. This encourages more walking, reduces reliance on private vehicles, and creates dynamic new activity centers.

• Property Value Increase : Areas around MRT and LRT stations tend to experience a surge in property values. Easy access to modern public transportation makes these locations highly desirable for both residential and business purposes.

• Reduced Congestion and Pollution : With the availability of convenient and affordable public transportation options, it is hoped that more people will switch from private vehicles. This will help reduce the number of vehicles on the road, reduce congestion, and reduce exhaust emissions that contribute to air pollution.

• Changing Commuter Behavior : The regularity and punctuality of the MRT/LRT encourages behavioral changes. People become more accustomed to schedules, disciplined, and integrated with other modes of transportation, such as buses and online motorcycle taxis.

Challenges and Negative Aspects to Consider

Despite bringing many benefits, the construction of MRT and LRT also poses a number of challenges, such as:

• Environmental Impact During Construction : Massive construction processes, especially for elevated highways, often sacrifice green open spaces and trees along the road. Relocating replacement trees and reorganizing public spaces is crucial.

• Traffic Disruption : During the construction period, traffic in the project area is often disrupted due to heavy equipment and road closures.

• Social Impact : Construction of stations and infrastructure may result in eviction or relocation of some residents or traders, so careful planning and compensation are required.

• High Project Costs : Building mass transit systems like the MRT and LRT requires significant investment. Governments and operators must find sustainable and integrated business models to maintain operational efficiency.

Overall, the future of metropolitan cities will depend heavily on how well urban planning and modern public transportation systems are integrated. The MRT and LRT are crucial first steps. Moving forward, cities must continue to develop these networks, integrate them with other modes of transportation, and ensure that development is inclusive and sustainable for all levels of society.