Two months after the launch of RapidPenang, how is the verdict on the bus service? We have been hearing that the earlier bus companies in the state may now be resorting to cutting their fares in order to lure more passengers but has this affected RapidPenang’s operations? Here is a report from Bernama:
RapidPenang Gears Up For Expansion, Driven By Overwhelming Response
PENANG, Oct 13 (Bernama) — Rapid Penang Sdn Bhd, driven by overwhelming response from commuters, is looking forward to expanding its bus service to the whole of Penang.
Chief Executive Officer Azhar Ahmad is happy that the service, launched on July 31, is used by an average of 40,000 people daily, double the targeted 20,000 passengers.
The feedback is that passengers are happy — the buses are clean, they operate on schedule, are disabled-friendly and safe, he said.
“The RapidPenang bus service is unlike any other. Our buses keep to their schedule and make the trip, even if there is only one passenger on board,” he added.
Azhar, 37, who took over on Sept 17 from Douglas David who has retired, said the company would continue to improve its service for the comfort and convenience of the people.
“We will proceed with the second phase of our service next year with additional routes, covering areas in Seberang Perai Selatan.
“Our buses not only ply areas with heavy passenger load but also destinations where there is small passenger load,” he said.
Under the current first phase, RapidPenang serves 70 per cent of the island, Seberang Perai Utara and Seberang Perai Tengah.
RapidPenang has 150 buses serving 33 routes, including 26 on the island. The bus fares range from RM1 to RM1.30 depending on the destination and route.
The company also has 10 buses for use to transport passengers from Butterworth to the island across the Penang Bridge.
– BERNAMA