GEORGE TOWN: Traffic disruptions, including lane reductions and road diversions, will begin next year during construction of Penang’s LRT Mutiara Line.
State infrastructure, transport and digital committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari said heavy works, partial lane closures and diversions are expected from the city to Bayan Lepas.
He said MRT Corporation has a Traffic Management Plan to keep traffic controlled and safe during construction of the line and its stations.
“MRTC is also required by the Penang Island City Council to provide a detailed plan for each station site,” said Zairil.
He said this covers George Town to Permatang Damar Laut so mitigation can be implemented effectively.
“Changes such as lane reductions and temporary diversions will cause congestion, especially at peak hours,” he said.
“The main traffic flow will be maintained so roads remain usable for the public,” added Zairil.
He spoke during the state assembly sitting on Wednesday (Nov 19).
Zairil (PH–Tanjung Bungah) was replying to Lee Boon Heng (PH–Kebun Bunga) on measures to ease congestion.
He said short term mitigation includes drone based traffic monitoring for real time management.
“From January 2026, phased changes such as free flow systems, new U turns and one way arrangements will be introduced,” he said.
He said key locations include Jalan Magazine, the Free Industrial Zone and the Sunny Point junction.
“Several signalised intersections will be reconfigured to smooth vehicle movement. Heavy vehicles will only operate outside peak hours,” he added.
Zairil said MRTC is working with the Free Industrial Zone Penang Companies’ Association to adjust factory hours.
He said this aims to avoid clashes with worker bus movements during peak periods.
“Road widening at strategic locations is also planned,” added Zairil, who cited areas near Macallum Station, Jalan Tengah and the SPICE Station.
“The state encourages the public to use public transport to reduce private vehicles,” he said.
He said Congestion Alleviation Transport buses and the free Mutiara Pass for civil servants will be expanded.
Zairil advised industries in the Free Industrial Zone to adopt flexible hours, car sharing and better travel planning.
“Workers in the area are encouraged to use public buses throughout construction. A transit oriented planning approach will support future sustainable mobility,” he added.
“Although there will be temporary disruptions, the Mutiara Line will bring significant mobility, economic and environmental benefits,” said Zairil.
