President Yoon Unveils Bold Transportation Expansion Plan for Greater Seoul Area

South Korea’s President Yoon Promises Transportation Expansion and Innovation in Greater Seoul Area

President Yoon attended the 6th “People’s Forum” in Uijeongbu, Gyeonggi Province, where he unveiled plans for a significant expansion of the transportation network. The ambitious project aims to revolutionize commuting and travel within the Greater Seoul Area.

Expanding the A-B-C Routes

President Yoon announced the extension of the A-B-C routes, which will enhance connectivity and reduce travel times. The A route will be extended to Pyeongtaek, the B route to Chuncheon, and the C route to Dongducheon and Cheonan-Asan.

The extensions of the A and C routes will be carried out without a feasibility study, with the respective local governments bearing the costs. Design work for these extensions is set to commence early next year. The feasibility study for the B route will be conducted in consultation with the local government.

Swift Progress and Collaboration

President Yoon emphasized the importance of swift progress in the extension of the D, E, and F routes. These routes are included in the national railway network plan and will be developed simultaneously. To expedite the projects, the government will also consider proposals from the private sector through public-private collaboration.

Reduced Travel Time and Nationwide Expansion

Upon completion of all the A-F routes, travel time from Seoul to the metropolitan area will be reduced to the 30-minute range. President Yoon also announced plans to expand the GTX service to major cities nationwide, including Busan, Ulsan, Gyeongnam, Daegu, Gyeongbuk, Daejeon, Sejong, Chungcheong, Gwangju, and Jeonnam.

Investment in Infrastructure and Improved Commuting

President Yoon pledged to invest 11 trillion won in improving transportation in the four major regions of the capital, east, west, south, and north. This investment aims to alleviate commuting burdens and enhance the overall quality of life for citizens.

To achieve this, the government plans to shorten the construction periods for roads and railways. Bus-only lanes will be installed on major arterial roads, and double-decker electric buses will be introduced to address citizens’ concerns.

Underground Railway Construction and Real Estate Regulations

President Yoon expressed his commitment to utilizing the “Special Act on Underground Railway Construction” to promote the construction of underground highways and roads. This includes the Seoul Outer Ring Expressway, Gyeongbu Expressway, and Gyeongin Expressway.

Regarding real estate regulations, President Yoon criticized the government’s policies for causing skyrocketing housing prices and a shortage of urban housing. He acknowledged the difficulties faced by citizens due to inadequate transportation infrastructure and expressed his determination to promptly address these issues.

President Yoon’s vision for an advanced transportation network and improved commuting experiences demonstrates the government’s commitment to enhancing the lives of its citizens. With plans for expansion, innovation, and collaboration, South Korea aims to create a more efficient and connected society.

Source: Kyunghyang Shinmun