Kota Bharu:A new bus station planned at the Kota Bharu East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) station under Budget 2027 aims to enhance Kelantan's public transport network and simplify travel across the state.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Laili Ismail, a committee member of PEMBAWA, stated that the integrated bus station is expected to increase bus ridership by offering ECRL passengers a seamless transition to their final destinations. This facility is anticipated to reduce the reliance on private vehicles, allowing passengers to continue their journeys without needing to visit a separate terminal.
Laili highlighted that this development could enable bus operators to expand their services, particularly on routes with high demand. The new bus station is also expected to alleviate congestion at the main bus terminal in Lembah Sireh, Kota Bharu, especially during festive seasons and peak hours. Currently, the Kota Bharu terminal handles around 150 trips daily during weekdays, with this number rising to between 180 and 200 trips during peak seasons.
He emphasized the importance of coordinating bus schedules with ECRL services to minimize waiting times for passengers. Additionally, essential amenities such as comfortable waiting areas, ticket counters, designated pick-up and drop-off zones, and well-organized bus entry and exit routes are crucial for smooth operations.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, while presenting Budget 2027, announced the plans for the bus station at the Kota Bharu ECRL station. The budget also includes a RM270 million allocation to improve stage bus services in major cities, including those connecting the 15 East Coast stations ahead of ECRL operations.
Local residents have expressed support for the new bus station. Ainy Md Yunos, 74, noted that having a bus station near the ECRL station would simplify travel for those without personal vehicles by allowing them to continue their journeys immediately upon arrival in Kota Bharu. Muhammad Bukhari Ab Ghaffar, 30, expressed hope that the bus services would extend to rural areas, enabling more Kelantan residents to benefit from the ECRL facility, particularly during peak travel times like festive seasons.