Ken Evans eulogises his 'car-trains” in his letter (The Weekend Sun, May 17).

However, accepting the convenience of door-to-door car transport (if you can find a parking space?), one must question his other claims.

'Most cost effective”? The cause of 300 + deaths a year plus hundreds more injured – some crippled for life – adding hugely to the country's health costs.

'Marvel at the skill and care of drivers”? With New Zealand's high cash rate when compared with some other countries!

Ken's letter omits the 'costs” of car and road transport's major contribution to the atmosphere's CO2 build up and the threat of catastrophic climate change. (Rail transport is five times as fuel efficient and can be readily electrified). And to this we should add the pollution from vehicle exhausts and tyre wear that rainfall runoff drains into our waterways and harbours.

And to his 'comfort list” (which are not exclusive to cars) rail transport provides less stressful, more relaxing travel, away from the anxieties and hurly-burly of our congested roads.

Greater use of passenger rail transport might not be as convenient and involve some walking from rail platforms (or cycling or scootering) but might also advantage Ken's and other people's health.

Eddie Orsulich, Otumoetai.