Penang 3rd link proposal under study, says Zairil

Penang island requires a third road link despite the recent Mutiara Line Light Rail Transit (LRT) bridge, according to Zairil Khir Johari, chairman of the state legislative assembly's Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Committee. The Mutiara Line's railway-only bridge is insufficient to alleviate traffic congestion, particularly in northern Seberang Prai, as it does not cater to vehicular traffic.

Zairil emphasized that the LRT bridge is strictly for trains, meaning it will not ease heavy traffic on the Penang Bridge. With growing traffic demand and feasibility considerations, another road crossing remains necessary, especially in northern Seberang Prai. The state government is reassessing the viability of the proposed third link, including the possibility of replacing the planned undersea tunnel with an elevated bridge.

The decision follows a feasibility study, leading to the approval of a review of the alignment and conceptual design to evaluate the bridge option as a more practical alternative. The proposed realignment would avoid clashing with the North Butterworth Container Terminal expansion plans and disrupt maritime navigation channels. The conceptual design study is being prepared and will be presented to the Penang Port Commission for feedback before a final route is decided.

Zairil explained that the RM845 per sq ft baseline in the agreement refers to net developable land to be handed over to the turnkey contractor, rather than the gross reclamation area. The financing model for the RM6.3 billion package includes a toll concession for the third link, which is an adjustable variable to ensure project viability.