Latest news with #Monorail
Los Angeles Times
12 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Los Angeles Times
LA Times Today: He worked with Walt Disney to shape Disneyland. Now at 93, boy, does he have stories
If you've ever ridden Disneyland's Matterhorn Bobsleds or climbed aboard the Monorail, then you're already familiar with the work of legendary Disney Imagineer Bob Gurr. Best known as the man behind many of Disneyland's most iconic rides, Gurr played a key role in creating the magic at the Magic Kingdom. And at 93, he's still got more horsepower than most of the attractions he built.
India Today
04-06-2025
- Business
- India Today
Mumbai metro launches battery swapping for electric vehicles at 31 stations
Mumbai has taken a major step towards clean and efficient urban travel by introducing battery-swapping stations at 31 Metro and Monorail locations. This initiative is a collaboration between Maha Mumbai Metro Operation Corporation Ltd (MMMOCL) and Honda Power Pack Energy India Pvt Ltd, and was launched just ahead of World Environment this project, Honda's advanced E: swap technology has been installed at 25 Metro stations on Lines 2A (Yellow Line) and 7 (Red Line), as well as six Monorail stations. These battery-swapping kiosks allow users of Honda-compatible electric two- and three-wheelers to quickly exchange their depleted Mobile Power Pack for a fully charged one in less than two minutes. This system eliminates the long wait times associated with traditional charging and helps tackle range anxiety, making EV use much more convenient for daily commuters, delivery personnel, and fleet of searching for charging points or waiting for hours, riders can now simply stop at a designated Metro or Monorail station, swap their batteries, and continue their journey without interruption. Stations like Gundavali, Andheri West, Malad West, Dahisar East, Goregaon East, and Monorail stops such as Chembur, Wadala, Naigaon, and Mint Colony are among the locations equipped with these facilities. This initiative not only supports environment-friendly commuting but also brings economic benefits. MMMOCL expects to generate about Rs 30 lakh in non-fare box revenue from this partnership, helping to strengthen the financial sustainability of Mumbai's mass transit project is part of MMMOCL's broader Electric Vehicle Policy, approved at its 29th board meeting under the leadership of Metropolitan Commissioner and MMMOCL Chairman Dr. Sanjay Mukherjee. Dr. Mukherjee emphasised that this partnership with Honda is a significant step towards creating a sustainable, low-emission urban environment and building future-ready public transport the first E: swap station already operational at Dahisar East, Mumbai is now among the first Indian cities to integrate battery swapping with its public transport network, setting an example for sustainable mobility across the country.
Indian Express
04-06-2025
- Business
- Indian Express
Battery swapping stations to come up at 31 Metro, Monorail stations in Mumbai
The Maha Mumbai Metro Operation Corporation Ltd (MMMOCL) has collaborated with Honda Power Pack Energy India Pvt Ltd. to set up battery swapping stations at 31 main Metro and Monorail stations in Mumbai. The project that was rolled out on Tuesday, ahead of World Environment Day, will benefit electric vehicle (EV) users, particularly those using two- and three-wheelers for daily use and delivery runs. The collaboration will feature Honda's 'E:swap technology' installed at 25 Metro stations on Lines 2A (Yellow Line) and 7 (Red Line), as well as six Monorail stations. These battery replacement facilities will enable EV owners to replace their spent Honda Mobile Power Pack with a new, fully charged battery in less than two minutes. The instant swapping capability obviates the waiting time that comes with traditional refuelling and overcomes the increasing problems of range anxiety, making EV adoption more convenient within the dense city. For commuters, particularly for delivery personnel, fleet operators,and frequent two-wheeler riders, this innovation adds convenience. 'Rather than hunting for charging points or waiting for hours, users will be able to just drive into a specific Metro or Monorail station and exchange their battery quickly before resuming their commute. This not only conserves time but guarantees uninterrupted access to power while commuting through daily city life,' an MMRDA official said. Metro stops like Gundavali, Andheri West, Malad West, Dahisar East, and Goregaon East are among the numerous places that will be equipped with these battery swap centres. Monorail stations like Chembur, Wadala, Naigaon, and Mint Colony will also be prepared for the same. The facility will be made available to users of Honda-compatible electric two- and three-wheelers, with each station following all possible technical, safety, and environmental regulations. According to officials, it not only encourages environment-friendly commuting but also provides economic value to the transit agency. MMMOCL anticipates generating about Rs 30 lakh in non-fare box revenue from this association, increasing the financial sustainability of mass transit systems. The project is also a component of MMMOCL's wider Electric Vehicle Policy, sanctioned under the guidance of Metropolitan Commissioner and MMMOCL Chairman Dr Sanjay Mukherjee in its 29th board meeting. The statement from Mukherjee said, 'This partnership with Honda is an important step towards fulfilling our vision for a sustainable low-emission urban environment. Through the facilitation of rapid and easy battery swapping at Metro and Monorail points, we are building the foundation for future-capable transport.' According to him, the policy is looking to develop integrated, future-capable urban mobility solutions through private sector involvement in the development of green infrastructure. With the initial station already up at Dahisar East, the network will be growing fast throughout the city, making Mumbai among the first Indian cities to combine battery swapping with public e-transport infrastructure, he added.
The Star
08-05-2025
- The Star
Malaysia needs a more senior-friendly public transport system
My friends are amazed at how I have been able to move around the city and the suburbs without a car. I have been relying mostly on public transport and my two faithful legs since 1998. They say they wouldn't have a clue how to take public transport to where they want to go. They intend to keep on driving for as long as possible. There is currently no mandatory upper age limit on driving. But as age creeps up on them, the day will surely come when they have no choice but to hang up their car keys for good. They will have to rely on friends to pick them up or opt for e-hailing rides. Or take public transport. When that happens, they should be thankful our public transport has improved vastly. The horror days of the pink mini buses driven by wannabe Grand Prix drivers are long gone. So have the dirty stage buses that plied the streets polluting the environment with their exhaust fumes. They have been replaced by buses and trains that are air-conditioned, comfortable and clean. There are free shuttle buses serving Kuala Lumpur city centre, Petaling Jaya and Penang. Senior citizens aged 60 and above enjoy 50% off all RapidKL buses and LRT/MRT/Monorail trains. The trains run on time. Waiting time is generally short with an average of five minutes. Women's coaches have been added for their safety and comfort. However, there is still room for improvement, especially for bus transport. It is the weak link in the overall public transport system. Cater to our silvers too According to the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) and research data, in 2023, there were 3.8 million citizens aged 60 and above. By 2030 this number is projected to reach 5.8 million (ageing nation status), and 6.4 million by 2040 (aged nation status). This means a potential huge increase in elderly ridership. Has the government been busy making preparations to cope with this surge? The World Health Organisation has a check-list of essential features of age-friendly cities. The section on public transportation covers various aspects such as availability, affordability, reliability and frequency, destinations, accessibility, and security. How does our public transport fare against this checklist? Easy accessibility and convenience take top priority. Older people rely on public transport to get to community centres, health services and social functions. They walk to the nearest bus stop and take the bus to the nearest train station to get to their destination. Are the roads and walkways safe for them to do so? Overhead bridges are fine for the general public but a challenge for the elderly to climb up the steps. Traffic lights at pedestrian crossings should be timed to allow older people ample time to cross busy roads. The traffic lights at the Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC) pedestrian crossing stay green for only 30 seconds. It's a mad dash across six lanes, even for young people, what more for senior citizens? Information about bus routes is not easily available. Instead, there are all kinds of notices and advertisements plastered on the bus-shelter boards, for example, room to let, job vacancies and plenty of graffiti. At some bus stops, route information is accessed through a laminated QR-code displayed on the board. Think about it, how many elderly have the QR-code scanner app installed on their mobile phones? Those who do, how many actually know how to navigate the app and understand the instructions and directions? The design of buses also leaves much to be desired for the elderly. The steps are too high for them to board easily. Bus drivers should get down and help those in wheelchairs to get on the bus. I have seen only one instance of a bus driver doing this. No wonder we hardly see anyone in wheelchair out on their own in the city. Many drivers are impatient and start driving off without waiting for the elderly passengers to be safely seated. It is imperative for bus drivers to show courtesy and follow procedures. They are supposed to stop the bus close to the kerb to pick up passengers. This would make it easy for them to board the bus. They just step off the kerb onto the bus. In practice, the bus stops some distance away from the kerb. Passengers have to walk to the bus. During a downpour, this means walking through puddles of water to get on the bus. Buses remain a vital link to the last mile destination. Yet they remain a poor cousin to the trains when it comes to overhauling or upgrading the public transport system. Education is always key Educating the public about respecting the elderly is also important. How many young people would give up their seats on the train for a senior citizen? They may do so for the disabled or a pregnant woman. But for an elderly? The priority seating sign is in every coach and announcements are made every few minutes, but few pay heed. Younger commuters often remain seated, ignoring the elderly person standing in front of them. Sad to say, this happens all the time on trains and buses. While the newer MRT lines and stations are a source of pride, the older LRT trains and stations need upgrading, especially the washrooms. It is common to find at least two not in use due to water leakage or faulty flush. The taps at the wash basins are either loose or dry. And maintenance is sporadic. It is the small inconveniences to the elderly that are often ignored or overlooked as being trivial or too inconsequential to pay attention to. But it is precisely the little things that matter. It doesn't take billions of dollars to make our public transport services and facilities age-friendly. Courteous and helpful drivers and station staff makes the travelling experience pleasant. Sometimes one can't help but wonder whether our city fathers and policy-makers are in touch with the realities on the ground. In focus groups, discussions, older persons who are regular commuters should be invited to give their views and suggestions. They know what is lacking and what needs improving. Age-friendly facilities benefit everyone, not just the older population. Lily Fu is a gerontologist who advocates for seniors. She is founder of SeniorsAloud, an online platform for seniors to connect and enjoy social activities for ageing well.
Rakyat Post
30-04-2025
- Business
- Rakyat Post
The Daily Commute Just Got A Premium Upgrade: Your Train Pass Now Opens Doors To Premium Workspaces
Subscribe to our FREE Here's the game-changer for anyone exploring Kuala Lumpur: that MyTourist Pass in your pocket – you know, the one that already gives you unlimited rides across RapidKL's entire network of LRT, MRT, Monorail, BRT, and buses throughout Klang Valley – just became your ticket to premium workspace access too. Starting 1 May, WORQ is offering an impressive 25% discount on day passes to their coworking spaces for MyTourist Pass holders, adding another layer of value to what's already becoming the must-have card for both local and international visitors navigating the city. Think about it: You're zipping around KL on unlimited rides, and now at any point during your journey, you can step off the train and into a Google-inspired workspace complete with unlimited coffee, high-speed WiFi, and even massage chairs. It's like having a network of premium lounges scattered across the city's transit system, but designed for actually getting work done. Whether you're a digital nomad, a business traveller, or just someone needing a productive space between meetings, you can now seamlessly transition from transport to workspace without missing a beat. The real kicker? These aren't just any random locations. WORQ has strategically positioned its 10 outlets right where you need them – in Transit-Oriented Developments (TODs) along major RapidKL train lines. (Pix: WORQ) Your Guide to MyTourist Pass For international visitors, this adds even more value to the MyTourist Pass, which already offers special rates for non-Malaysian travellers. The process is straightforward: scan the QR code on RapidKL station information boards, choose your WORQ location, and you're set. Just remember to bring your MyTourist Pass receipt when you check in. This collaboration isn't just about workspace access – it's about transforming how people experience Kuala Lumpur. (Pix: WORQ) While the MyTourist Pass has already been making waves by offering discounts at tourist attractions, eateries, and shopping centres, this WORQ partnership elevates it from a simple transit pass to a comprehensive city access card. The offer runs through 31 December, with each email address eligible for three visits – plenty of opportunities to experience different locations across the Klang Valley. The MyTourist Pass is available for purchase by both Malaysians and foreigners. Malaysians need to bring their own Touch 'n Go card with a minimum balance of RM6.00 to encode with the MyTourist Pass. Share your thoughts with us via TRP's . Get more stories like this to your inbox by signing up for our newsletter.
