GEORGE TOWN: Mitigation works to address coastal erosion along Penang’s popular Batu Ferringhi beachfront have begun to help preserve one of the state’s premier tourist attractions.
The RM500,000 project, undertaken by the state Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID), began on July 8 in front of the Lone Pine Hotel and is expected to be completed by Aug 10.
State infrastructure committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari said a total of 62 beach containers will be installed along a 44m stretch of the shoreline.
“The method is intended to reduce the impact of waves on the shoreline, slow the rate of erosion and protect the most severely affected areas pending the implementation of a comprehensive coastal protection project.
“Based on DID’s technical assessment, this mitigation measure is expected to remain effective for two to three years, depending on weather conditions, wave activity and natural factors such as tidal changes and extreme weather events,” he said.
Zairil said the project cost also covers site clearing and the removal of fallen trees.
He said the use of beach containers was chosen after taking into account Batu Ferringhi’s status as one of Penang’s leading tourist destinations.
The current mitigation effort is expected to provide temporary protection until the approved long-term coastal erosion project is implemented, Zairil added.
He warned that delaying the mitigation works could worsen erosion and allow it to extend further inland.
“If that happens, permanent structures, public amenities and infrastructure located near the shoreline could be affected,” he said.
On the long-term coastal protection project, Zairil said it would include the construction of coastal defence structures and beach nourishment works, subject to the findings of technical studies and the final design.
“The approach is aimed at reducing the rate of coastal erosion, stabilising the shoreline and sustainably protecting infrastructure, public assets and tourism areas in Batu Ferringhi.
“The project has been approved under the 12th Malaysia Plan and is currently in the consultant appointment phase to prepare the detailed design before construction can begin,” he said.
Zairil also assured the public that the ongoing mitigation works are being carried out with due regard for visitor safety, the continuity of tourism activities and environmental sustainability.
He explained that the beach containers could only be installed during low tide, giving the DID-appointed contractor only a limited window each day to carry out the works.
Among the challenges faced, he said, were continuous rain, strong winds and high waves.
“As there is no direct access route for heavy machinery to reach the beach area, most of the work, including the delivery of construction materials and the removal of debris such as fallen trees, requires double handling, increasing both the time required and the complexity of the project,” he said.
