BATU KAWAN – Penang continues to seek federal assistance to fund new infrastructure, with Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow now appealing for help for the proposed Juru-Sg Dua elevated highway.
If completed, the highway would alleviate traffic around the North-South Expressway, which currently handles traffic into Kedah and Perak, causing congestion in Seberang Prai.
“There are many infrastructure projects, including the LRT project, which need urgent attention. The Penang government has constantly highlighted such projects to the federal government for its consideration,” Chow said after closing a round-table discussion on environmental, social, and corporate governance, as well as sustainability, in the supply chain.
“(Prime Minister Datuk Seri) Anwar (Ibrahim) recognises our woes, and we understand that the proposed project is now under the consideration of the Economic Planning Unit. We hope to address the concerns of road users along that corridor, which has spillover effects right onto Batu Kawan and the island.”
Chow’s remarks on the proposed Juru-Sg Dua highway come after Putrajaya’s promise to provide additional funds for Penang’s LRT project.
Chow said the Juru-Sg Dua elevated highway can help to separate local traffic from that heading to other states, easing traffic flow in the process.
Before the pandemic, travel time between Penang and Alor Star in Kedah averaged 60 minutes but can now take up to 90 minutes. – The Vibes, May 10, 2023
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