Why did MBPP set aside RM900,000 yearly for CAT shuttles?

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MBPP Allocates RM900,000 Annually for Free Hospital Shuttle Service to Enhance Public Transport and Alleviate Congestion

The Penang Island City Council (MBPP) has committed RM900,000 annually to fund the free Central Area Transit (CAT) shuttle bus service. This initiative is primarily aimed at encouraging greater utilisation of public transportation, thereby reducing the dependency on private vehicles. The service also seeks to address the persistent issues of traffic congestion and limited parking availability in the vicinity of Penang Hospital and other healthcare facilities.
Promoting Public Transport Use and Reducing Private Vehicle Reliance

The substantial annual allocation reflects MBPP's strategic objective to shift commuters towards public transport options. By providing a free and convenient shuttle service, the council aims to make public transit a more attractive alternative to private cars. This directly supports the goal of reducing the overall number of vehicles on the road, particularly in densely populated and high-traffic areas.
Easing Traffic Congestion and Parking Shortages

A key driver for the CAT shuttle service's introduction was the significant traffic congestion and parking scarcity surrounding the hospital complex. An MBPP survey conducted after the expansion project at Penang Hospital identified these constraints as a pressing issue. The shuttle service is designed to alleviate these problems by offering a reliable transport solution for patients, visitors, and staff, thereby freeing up parking spaces and smoothing traffic flow.
Responding to Healthcare Facility Expansion Needs

The establishment of the CAT shuttle service was a direct response to the findings of an MBPP survey that followed Penang Hospital's expansion project. This expansion highlighted an increased demand for public transportation due to the resulting parking challenges. The service aims to provide a free, safe, and accessible means for patients, senior citizens, and caregivers to reach various healthcare facilities, including Penang Hospital and three private hospitals.
Operational Details and Ridership Growth

The free shuttle service, which commenced on January 1, operates daily from 6 am to 8 pm along an eight-kilometre route. It is serviced by three Rapid Penang buses, with trips scheduled every 20 minutes, making a total of 36 trips per day. Since its inception, the service has seen a positive response, with daily ridership nearly doubling from an initial 300 passengers to approximately 600 passengers currently.

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Why did MBPP set aside RM900,000 yearly for CAT shuttles?

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