The RM5.9 billion cost for the second phase of the KTM's Klang Valley double-tracking project is too much for Putrajaya to stomach, Transport Minister Anthony Loke said.

“The cost of RM5.9 billion for the second phase of the rehabilitation programme is too much and it is supposed to take seven years to complete.

“We cannot stomach that,” Loke was quoted as saying by the Malay Mail.

Phase 2 of the project, which was awarded through direct tender, was among several projects the Finance Ministry put under review.

This second phase was meant to upgrade the 62km stretch of railway track between Salak Selatan to Seremban.

The first phase, which involved upgrading works to the 42km stretch of track between Rawang and Salak Selatan, is already ongoing at an estimated cost of RM1.41 billion.

Loke said the first phase was supposed to be completed by August 2019, but will be delayed to November that year.

“We are adopting this honest approach to admit that there will be delays rather than cover up the fact.

“I, therefore, urge passengers to plan ahead and use alternative forms of transportation to reach their destinations,” he said.

He said the delay in completion will result in delays for KTM passengers of between 15 to 30 minutes or even longer during peak hours, and 30 minutes to one hour or even longer during off-peak hours.