GEORGE TOWN: The Penang Mutiara Line Light Rail Transit (LRT) project has not been delayed despite the tender for Package 2 yet to be implemented, says Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
He said the tender involves rail systems, trains, electricity supply and signalling systems, but its timing does not affect the progress of works under Package 1.
“Although it is important, the tender does not affect civil works under Package 1.
"Work on Package 2 can only begin after Package 1 is completed, as tracks cannot be laid if the pillars have yet to be erected.
“I believe the slight adjustment to the schedule will not pose a problem as the substructure and superstructure works must be completed first.
"The stations also need to be ready before the rail system, electrical system, signalling system and rolling stock can be installed. Those stages are still some way off,” he said.
Chow said the contractor for Package 1 would also need to know the requirements of the Package 2 contractor before the next phase begins.
He added that the RM16.8bil project remains on track and is targeted to begin operations in December 2031.
Meanwhile, Chow said 23,000 people have visited information booths set up during the public inspection exercise for the revised railway scheme of the project, with about 8,000 feedback submissions received thus far.
The three-month public inspection, conducted by Malaysia Rapid Transit Corporation (MRT Corp), began on Feb 24 and runs until May 24.
The booths have been set up at several locations across Penang, including Komtar, Penang Sentral and the Butterworth KTM station, as part of the exercise.
It allows the public to review and comment on the proposed extension of the LRT line to Seberang Perai, including its alignment, station locations and other related matters.
When completed, the Mutiara Line will span about 29.67km with 20 stations and two provisional stations, including a cross-sea connection linking Macallum on Penang Island to Penang Sentral in Seberang Perai.
