IN Penang today, especially in central George Town, the increase in traffic has made pedestrians uncomfortable.
With the fast pace of development, safety is being compromised.
Work has been going on daily to widen roads by narrowing the pedestrian walkways.
Unfortunately, bicycle lanes are also being included in the pedestrian walkways.
This has left many pedestrians wondering whether their safety is at stake.
Tourists who are not familiar with our roads are bewildered by the volume of traffic.
Additionally, empty places near high rises have been turned into businesses or parking lots.
If there is an emergency, such as fire or accident, where is the assembly point for the visitors or inhabitants of the affected buildings?
Development is vital for economic growth but it cannot compromise on the safety of people. The safety of road users must be prioritised.
CHONG HAI YONG,
Penang