NGO expresses concerns on new Penang highway construction

 

Citizens group Penang Forum has expressed concerns regarding the safety and environmental effects of the ongoing construction of the Air Itam-Jalan Dr Lim Chwee Leong Highway in George Town.

Its president, Mohideen Abdul Kader, said one of the main issues that arose from the project aimed at improving traffic flow in Penang island was the safety buffer zone between the roadway and occupied apartment blocks on either side.

“There are also concerns about the erosion and sediment control plan, particularly during the rainy season when mudflows and landslides may occur.

“It is essential that engineering safety measures are taken into account to prevent any mishaps that could endanger the lives of those in the area and cause significant environmental damage,” he said in a statement today.

Citing posts on the Ayer Itam-Lebuh Raya Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu Facebook page, Mohideen noted that the new highway plan has three road tunnels but questioned whether the hill road project had obtained an environmental impact assessment (EIA) beforehand.

“Are there any variations to the original road plan? If there are, we would like to know if they have been approved and what measures have been taken to mitigate any potential negative impacts on the environment and surrounding communities,” he said.

Mohideen further queried whether the tunnels on the hill road were constructed using tunnel boring machines or cut-and-cover methods.

As the project moves forward, it is crucial that the Penang state government addressed the concerns and took steps to ensure the safety of residents and the environment, he added.

“We urge the state government to provide clear and transparent information about its plans and actions taken to mitigate potential risks.” - Mkini