Penang S Pil 1 Highway And Lrt Can Coexist

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From Amanina Hussain
Penang’s Pan Island Link 1 (PIL 1) highway has been generating plenty of public discourse lately, largely due to its considerable construction cost and the concern that it might challenge the proposed LRT in Penang.
While fiscal caution is understandable, focusing solely on budgetary figures can overshadow the broader advantages that PIL 1 promises to bring. One of the most significant points in this discussion is the highway’s route through a hilly area.
Rather than engaging in extensive clearing, the current design specifies tunnel sections that aim to keep the hill mostly intact, thereby safeguarding valuable ecosystems.
Large-scale projects frequently raise questions about deforestation, soil disruption and habitat destruction. PIL 1 addresses these worries by adopting tunnelling methods that can substantially reduce surface-level interference.
Tunnel-boring machinery, controlled rock excavations and thorough drainage planning mitigate harm to vegetation and wildlife.
Where the highway meets surface roads, retaining walls and progressive reforestation initiatives can help stabilise slopes and reintroduce native plant species.
Although these approaches entail higher construction outlays, they underline a strong commitment to preserving Penang’s distinctive hillside environments.
Preserving hilly terrain through tunnelling also maintains local biodiversity. Hills often host specialised plants and animals that require particular temperature ranges and rainfall patterns to thrive. By confining construction to carefully planned pathways, deforestation is minimised and it also helps preserve water catchments, thus reducing the likelihood of landslides or flash floods.
Interestingly, during the recent Penang LRT groundbreaking event, the Prime Minister brought up flooding as an issue that requires attention in Malaysia. Retaining the hills and greens, by spending a little more, does have its benefits.
These technical efforts may prompt increases in project expenses, yet they yield a highway that balances modernisation with ecological integrity.
Ultimately, this approach allows Penang to advance infrastructure development while championing responsible environmental stewardship.
Beyond environmental considerations, PIL 1 has the potential to alleviate traffic congestion, which remains a major source of carbon emissions.
Congestion leads to prolonged idling, resulting in higher pollution levels. By diverting private vehicles from overcrowded city roads, PIL 1 aims to shorten travel times and lower overall emissions.
Concurrently, the LRT would offer a cost-efficient public transport alternative for individuals who prefer to avoid the stress of driving.
This dual strategy of ensuring that both road and rail options coexist provides travellers with multiple choices for commuting, thereby distributing traffic more evenly.
Critics maintain that a new highway might reduce LRT passenger numbers. I tend to think commuter habits hinge on various practical factors, such as route convenience, service frequency and personal preferences.
An efficient rail line with consistent schedules, reasonable fares and safe stations can hold its own against a highway.
Many travellers opt for public transport if it proves dependable and economical. Others may still rely on private vehicles, which then emphasises PIL 1’s purpose of accommodating diverse commuting demands.
When guided by effective planning, highway and rail proposals can exist side by side, rather than pose threats to one another.
Financial prudence remains an important aspect of any infrastructure plan, and it is reasonable for observers to question how best to invest public funds.
Yet, turning down every large-scale project because of high costs can limit Penang’s growth and compromise future aspirations.
Population increases and urban expansion often lead to worsening congestion, rising pollution, and dissatisfaction among residents.
By wisely channelling resources into projects like PIL 1, constructed with ecological awareness and transparency, Penang can address current traffic frustrations while establishing a roadmap for sustainable progress.
Neglecting infrastructure might temporarily save funds but could ultimately yield congestion, delayed economic advancement and a reduced quality of life.
Public engagement plays a central role in ensuring that projects like PIL 1 satisfy community needs. Transparent briefings and feedback forums allow residents to voice environmental concerns and highlight local priorities.
Where valid worries emerge, phased construction and scaled-down segments can be introduced to moderate immediate expenses and protect cherished natural sites.
Such measures promote equitable use of taxpayers’ contributions and bolster community trust in the final outcome.
When coupled with the LRT, PIL 1 illustrates that strategic transport planning can merge infrastructural improvement with environmental guardianship.
Rather than dismissing PIL 1 over cost alone, the Government should review the viability of the project. Penangites are hoping it will not take another 10 years before the review sees daylight.
It was already painful waiting for the LRT to see daylight and here I am waiting to retire in my hometown riding on the LRT. - FMT
Amanina Hussain is an FMT reader.
The views expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of MMKtT.

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