On Saturday, the car-crazy city Phoenix, launched its latest light rail system, stretching 20 miles through a expansive desert urban area, including the cities of Tempe and Mesa. Though questions are being raised about the prospective use of this system, most riders call it convenient, economical, and good for the environment.

Built in almost four years, at a cost of $1.4 billion, the startup rail line runs from north-central Phoenix through downtown, and then eastwards through Tempe and Mesa. By 2025, additional 30 miles would open in Phoenix, Tempe, Mesa and Glendale.

Officials of the light-rail opine that, on an average, nearly 26,000 people will make use of the system during weekdays. Till Thursday – the first day of the New Year - the riders can avail the benefit of free rides, and later they would have to spend merely $1.25 for a one-way ticket, and $2.50 for a day pass.

The Mayor of Phoenix, Phil Gordon, sneered at critics who called the system was a waste of money due to the area’s love of cars. At the inauguration of the system, he remarked: “Today, you don’t hear or see very many of those individuals!” Gordon also said that ridership by rail should get a boost due to the economic crisis.

Incidentally, Phoenix, largest and the fifth-populous US city, has been without a public rail transit system – the high temperature here is the reason why people prefer traveling by their air-conditioned cars!