Big thumbs-up for new Puduraya

Big thumbs-up for new Puduraya terminal (The Star)

Wednesday June 1, 2011

THE Puduraya terminal has been given a big thumbs-up after resuming operations on April 16 following extensive renovations worth almost RM50mil.

The Star reader James Gonzales in a letter to The Star said Puduraya is a fine example of how taxpayers’ money should be spent in a prudent and judicious manner.

“More than 10 years ago, I wrote about the shortcomings and deficiencies at the Puduraya bus terminal. Among my complaints were the traffic snarls, air pollution, lack of security, flooding, ticket touts and unhygienic surroundings,” he said.

Fresh new look: The new state-of-the-art complex of Puduraya seen from across the road.

“However, I had the opportunity to revisit Puduraya and was happy with the vast improvements that made it presentable and appealing.

“The environment for passengers is now very conducive, with good seating arrangements, and the entire terminal is now fully air-conditioned. There are CCTVs at strategic points, and security as a whole has been beefed up, with the security personnel patrolling the place,” he added.

Muhd Falahin, 17, who sells handphones at the terminal said business was picking up, indicating that the crowd is coming back to the iconic terminal.

“Most of my customers say that Puduraya now is like a new state-of-the-art complex and are truly enjoying the environment here now,” he said when met last week.

Snack shop assistant, 25-year-old Hamimatun Hassan said the terminal was now more comfortable with its air-conditioned waiting area.

The new terminal also spots a larger and more comfortable waiting area, escalators, new lifts and washrooms. — Bernama

“This place used to be hot and reeked of exhaust smoke. Now, even if the weather outside is hot, we are comfortable inside,” she said.

University student Zurin Harun, 20, said the process of purchasing tickets was now easier and orderly, with all ticket counters located on the same level.

“I feel safe here as there are closed-circuit television cameras everywhere and the waiting area is brightly lit,” said nurse, A. Avril, 25.

The 35-year-old terminal also spots a larger and more comfortable waiting area, escalators, new lifts and washrooms while also featuring disabled-friendly faci-lities.

Another development concerning the terminal is also the upgrading of Puduraya Hotel, renamed as Angkasa Express, which is expected to be completed by June.