Asia’s burgeoning population has increased daily commute times, putting pressure on metro networks. Investing in urban rail infrastructure is proven to be the most efficient solution for reducing traffic congestion, aiding population and economic growth – as well as reducing emissions-related pollution. It should come as no surprise then, that PWC estimates that investments in subway systems across Asia may exceed USD230 billion within the next 15 years.
By Viraj Desai
ASEAN will add another 100 million people in the next 12 years taking its total population to 720 million. This growth reflects a rapidly surging population adding to the existing problem of congestion. The top 10 most congested cities in Southeast Asia include Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Surabaya and Davao et al, demonstrating that congestion is now commonplace.
Transportation systems across Southeast Asia rank Singapore and Malaysia among the top 20 congested networks, according to the World Economic Forum ranking of countries on transport infrastructure, leaving much-needed scope for investment in urban subway system upgrades. Malaysia, which has the third highest car ownership globally, is combating congestion with the roll out of its new 51 km MRT system.
Singapore’s network handles 2 million passengers a day with 198 km network; Hong Kong handles 4.89 million with 230 km network while 131 km of Taipei handles 2 million people. The tremendous usage and need for metro expansions are evident with trains in Singapore travelling an average of 174,000 km while Hong Kong network trains travel 360,000 km and 800,000 km on the Taipei network.
Shanghai Metro, the largest subway network in the world, has over 671 km of tracks and 18 lines. It is expected to have an operational network of 830 km by 2020 and 1,000 km by 2030. Considering that one km of line may cost up to USD 80 million, one may conservatively estimate investment in excess of USD 12 billion for Shanghai Subway system upgrades. In China alone, more than 41 cities are currently undergoing metro system upgrades, of which 26 cities are building their first urban railway network.
Increasing China’s subway systems is the best solution to meet its growing infrastructure needs, with nearly 10 million commuting daily to Beijing alone. China now boasts a fleet of 4,000 trains; triple the number in 2005 and managing over 367 stations with a high punctuality schedule...
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