LRT 3 Shah Alam Line

The Light Rail Transit Line 3 (LRT3) also known as the Shah Alam Line, is set to commence operations on September 30, 2025, will be a major addition to the public transport network in the Klang Valley after the turnkey contractor hands over the project to Prasarana Malaysia Bhd on July 2025. The ministry of transport has confirmed that the construction progress of the line, which stretches from Bandar Utama to Johan Setia, is almost completed. This development brings the highly anticipated Shah Alam Line closer to completion and ensures that it is on track to meet its operational deadline.

The Ministry of Transport (MOT) indicated that two important tests will be conducted before the line begins its full operations: the Trial Run (TR) and Fault-Free Run (FFR) tests. These tests, which will involve train operations without passengers, will take place over a period of 75 days. These essential tests are designed to ensure that the rail system complies with required safety standards and operating procedures (SOPs), and to verify the durability and operational performance of the system. During this period, the main contractor for the LRT3 project, Setia Utama LRT3 Sdn Bhd, will be responsible for running both the Trial Run and the Fault-Free Run tests.

The FFR test results will be carefully evaluated by the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD) to ensure compliance with safety regulations and guarantees specific to the rail system. The trial run and FFR tests are set to begin in mid-April 2025 and finish by the end of June 2025. If the results are satisfactory, and the tests meet the necessary operational criteria, the project will move on to the next phase: the trial operation (TO). The trial operation phase, which is expected to last for 60 days, will begin in July and is anticipated to be concluded by the end of August 2025. This stage of the process will be conducted by Rapid Rail Sdn Bhd, the licensed rail operator for the LRT3 line, with continued technical support from Setia Utama LRT3 Sdn Bhd. These tests are crucial to ensure that the system operates smoothly and meets all necessary safety, quality, and performance standards before the line begins carrying passengers.

It is clear that the LRT3 line is progressing well and remains on target for a full operational rollout later this year. This is a positive sign for the Klang Valley’s public transport system, as the LRT3 line will significantly improve connectivity between key areas in the region, such as Bandar Utama, Shah Alam, and Johan Setia. The project has had its share of changes during its development, with certain stations originally planned to be excluded from the route now reinstated. Stations such as Tropicana (previously known as Lien Hoe), Temasya, Raja Muda (Sirim), Bukit Raja, and Bandar Botanik, which were previously omitted from the project’s scope, have now been added back in, restoring the original vision for the LRT3 line. This reinstatement of stations will further enhance the service area of the LRT3 line and ensure that more communities benefit from improved access to public transportation.

The LRT3 line, also known as the Shah Alam Line, will be the third line in the Klang Valley’s light rail transit system, following the LRT Ampang and Sri Petaling lines, as well as the LRT Kelana Jaya line. The new line will provide a significant boost to the region’s public transport infrastructure, reducing traffic congestion and improving mobility for residents. Spanning a distance of approximately 37 kilometers, the LRT3 line will feature a total of 26 stations, providing crucial connections to existing transport hubs and business centers.

When fully operational, the LRT3 line is expected to serve thousands of commuters daily, offering an efficient and sustainable alternative to driving. By connecting key areas such as Bandar Utama, Shah Alam, and Johan Setia, the LRT3 line will provide a vital link for both residents and workers, improving access to key destinations across the Klang Valley. The line will also integrate with other public transport systems, such as the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) and KTM Komuter lines, allowing passengers to easily switch between different modes of transport and reach their destinations faster and more conveniently.

The completion of the LRT3 line also aligns with Malaysia’s broader vision to enhance its public transport network and encourage the use of more sustainable transport options. By expanding the light rail system, the government is working towards reducing reliance on private cars, cutting down on traffic congestion, and improving air quality in the urban areas of the Klang Valley. The LRT3 line will be an essential part of this strategy, as it will help ease the strain on the road network and provide a reliable and efficient mode of transport for people living and working in the region.

As the LRT3 project moves closer to its completion date, there are many expectations surrounding its impact on the Klang Valley’s transport system. The trial runs and fault-free tests are critical steps in ensuring that the system operates safely and efficiently. Once the line is up and running, it will not only improve the commuting experience for thousands of residents, but it will also contribute to the long-term development and growth of the region.