Tourists visiting Macau are dissatisfied with the Light Rapid Transit (LRT) system, citing operational flaws and the need for improvement. Complaints include long waiting times, lack of shelter at stations, and a lack of connectivity between stations and hotels. Suggestions for improvement include reducing waiting times, providing more shelter at stations, and improving connectivity between the LRT stations and other venues. The Macao LRT Corporation reported a drop in the number of passengers transported in May, with an average of 11,800 passengers per day. The authorities have not yet responded to the issues and suggestions [e1620542].
This news adds to the concerns about the management of transportation projects in Hong Kong and highlights the need for improved planning and execution of transportation schemes. The dissatisfaction of tourists with the LRT service in Macau raises questions about the transparency, accountability, and efficiency of transportation initiatives in the region [abf06b46] [6c67856b].
In Metro Manila, the Department of Transportation (DoTr) is studying the feasibility of dedicating a motorcycle lane along Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA) to alleviate traffic congestion. Transportation Secretary Jaime J. Bautista stated that the traffic congestion in Metro Manila costs the Philippine economy about P3.5 billion daily, and this figure could rise to P9 billion daily by 2030. The DoTr, along with other government agencies, is conducting the study. President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. recently announced that the government will expedite railway projects to address traffic congestion. The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has also outlined a traffic decongestion plan that includes improving and expanding the national road network. The feasibility study is ongoing [08deda66].
Meanwhile, in Hong Kong, the Peak Tram service has resumed after a three-day suspension caused by fallen trees near its tracks during heavy rain. The Peak Tram Company expressed gratitude to government departments and its own engineering team for clearing fallen tree trunks and conducting inspections. Trams began running again between The Peak and the terminus in Central at 7.30am on Wednesday. The service suspension disappointed some tourists, who sought refunds for their tickets [9403b788].
In Toronto, a motion is coming to city council to investigate further accelerating construction on the Gardiner Expressway. The $300-million construction project to refurbish the 60-year-old highway and portions of its elevated structure began in March and will require lane closures over the next three years. Mayor Olivia Chow promises measures to address congestion on the key artery. City council will consider a motion to ask staff to investigate further accelerating the work, including construction 24/7 and off-site pre-fabrication. The head of Toronto's Infrastructure Committee says work is already underway to determine the feasibility of speeding up the project. The province has also expressed a desire to help speed up the construction. The project is part of a larger multi-billion dollar effort to save the aging structure [33b6ed6c].