Penang undersea tunnel project expected to drive state progress
GEORGE TOWN: The Penang Undersea Tunnel project remains relevant and is expected to have a positive impact on the people and the state's development, the Penang government said.
State Infrastructure and Transport Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari (DAP - Tanjung Bunga) said this was because it would help divert the high traffic flow in both directions from the first Penang Bridge and its surrounding areas to the new route, thereby reducing severe traffic congestion on access roads leading to the bridge.
"As of now, the state government remains optimistic about the implementation of this project.
"However, based on the Master Agreement with the contractor, the state government reserves the right to decide whether to proceed with the project or not, depending on the outcome of the feasibility study," he said in a written reply to Lee Khai Loon (PKR - Machang Bubuk) at the ongoing state legislative assembly sitting.
In February, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the proposed third link for vehicular movement between Penang island and Seberang Prai would see a change in alignment.
He, however, did not elaborate.
The undersea tunnel connecting Penang Island to the mainland is part of the state's RM6.3 billion mega project.
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