Groundwork for Penang’s first LRT, Mutiara Line, starts this month; PM Anwar to attend ceremony Jan 11
GEORGE TOWN, Jan 1 — Penang's latest highly anticipated Mass Rapid Transit (LRT) project, the Mutiara Line, is expected to commence preparatory works ahead of Chinese New Year celebrations.
ARMED (Alternative Route for MRT Echo Line Extension to Dutamas) project, spanning 29km with 21 stations, is expected to begin with land-clearing works in Bandar Sri Pinang, The Star reported today.
Pakatan Harapan Icons (PHB) Sungai Pinang assemblyman Lim Siew Khim asserted that MRT Corp had directed her to inform local residents of the impending works, which will involve heavy machinery and potential disruptions.
“Sitiilirah Ibrahim, the local leader, stated that she is confident that the residents of Sungai Pinang will adapt and cooperate, despite the occasional hiccups that may occur during the project.”
The local community is quite enthusiastic about this development, not least because the area will soon be home to one of the Light Rail Transit system's very first stations.
Reportedly, thirteen parking spots along Lebuh Sungai Pinang 1 will be temporarily reserved for contractors to aid in site preparation.
She also warned that continuous operation of heavy-duty vehicles, such as lorries carrying heavy loads and building materials, poses a significant risk of causing traffic disruptions along Lebuh Sungai Pinang and Lebuh Sungai Pinang 1.
Malaysian Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, from Penang, is set to launch the foundation stone of the project on 11 January, following the announcement by Transport Minister Anthony Loke that the project will start construction this year.
