BUTTERWORTH: A proper traffic management plan must be in place during the upgrading of the sewage treatment plant in Mak Mandin and the construction of a new sewerage pipeline under the Butterworth North catchment area.
While acknowledging the project is a necessary infrastructure upgrade, Penang MCA vice-chairman Dr Tan Chuan Hong said its impact on residents' daily lives should not be overlooked.
Dr Tan, who is also Bagan MCA chairman, said excavation works along Jalan Raja Uda, Jalan Telaga Gajah and Jalan Kampung Baru over the past few months had caused severe traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.
"More concerning is that some work sites have uneven road surfaces and poorly reinstated temporary roads, posing safety risks to motorcyclists and other road users.
"A moment of carelessness could easily lead to an accident," he said after attending a gathering with Bagan MCA grassroots leaders recently.
Tan said although the authorities had assured the public that contractors would carry out temporary repairs before the project's completion, such measures should have been implemented promptly rather than only after repeated public complaints.
"There should be a comprehensive traffic diversion plan, with sufficient personnel deployed to manage traffic, especially as multiple work sites are operating simultaneously to expedite the project," he said.
Tan welcomed the Public Works Department's commitment to upgrade the affected roads and road shoulders once the project is completed.
He said Bagan MCA would continue monitoring the project and urge the relevant authorities to strengthen safety measures at construction sites, improve traffic flow, carry out prompt road repairs and establish a more effective communication mechanism to address residents' concerns.
The Butterworth North sewerage project involves upgrading the regional sewage treatment plant in Mak Mandin and constructing a new sewerage pipeline network to replace ageing infrastructure.
The federally funded project is expected to improve sewerage services for about 250,000 residents across north Seberang Perai through 2050, while reducing pollution and preventing sewage overflows.
