Today the guburdenment announced toll hikes to major highways in and around the klang valley. There is little doubt that the more prosperous should be taxed to support projects that would have a multiplier effect.
Multiply what?
So what is the justification of raising the toll fee at this time? The timing is so noxious that are citizens really the first priority? Or is now the time to fill up the coffers of the guburdenment?
But then, why does the guburdenment need money so desperately? Is there a hole draining the finances?
The toll hikes will range from 30 cents to RM3. Which is a stupendous figure if you consider the amount of traffic that passes through each toll. I am guessing millions daily if we add them up. That is considering that the same amount of vehicles uses the tolled road after this increase.
Nevertheless, I think that most people working and living in the klang valley will absorb this increase and continue to use the tolled roads simply because there is no alternative. MRT is 4 years away with the penetration zone more politically motivated than traffic orientated. The other train lines are only now having a resemblance of a train system. Forget efficient.
However there are rumours swirling around that even train fares will be hiked! So are the citizens really first priority? All actions seems to beg to differ.
Alas, it is only the urbanites that bears the brunt of these increases and hikes. Sub-urban and rural folks can be expected to be oblivious to these as they are not even remotely affected. Punishment for coming out to rally?
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