Budget 2026: why rail deserves priority over roads
As Budget 2026 approaches, public attention will once again turn to what the government is prepared to allocate for the transport sector.
Traditionally, roads and highways have received the lion’s share of funding. Billions have been poured into road expansion, highway concessions, and maintenance.
Yet despite substantial spending, public benefits remain limited and questionable — especially given the recurring need for the government to subsidise toll rates during festive seasons.
Congestion is still crippling, road accidents remain a national tragedy, and overloaded lorries continue to damage highways while causing fatal crashes.
ECRLÂ
The time has come to rethink our priorities and transport strategies.
With the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) expected to begin operations in early 2027, the government must now focus on strengthening rail transport instead of continuing to over-invest in roads.
The imbalance between road and rail investment is stark. While highways stretch…
