GEORGE TOWN: Components in Phase One of the Penang Transport Master Plan (PTMP) will proceed as planned, the Penang state assembly was told today.
State Housing, Local Government, Town and Rural Development Committee chairman Jagdeep Singh Deo (Pakatan Harapan - Datuk Keramat) said all the infrastructure projects will continue after obtaining the necessary approvals.
He said the Social Impact Assessment (SIA) has been put in place and would be forwarded to the relevant technical departments for the green light.
“The SIA will look into any social impacts and existing issues while recommending steps to mitigate these issues. The Penang government has given our highest commitment to implement all mitigation measures to ensure the smooth implementation of the PTMP.
“The state government will continue to ensure that we abide by all the rules and regulations for all projects under the PTMP,” he said in response to an additional question by state opposition leader Muhamad Yusoff Mohd Noor (Barisan Nasional — Sungai Dua).
Yusoff had asked if the first phase of the PTMP project would proceed if it is found to negatively affect areas surrounding the project such as schools and cemeteries.
Phase One of the PTMP would include the Bayan Lepas Light Rail Transit (LRT) project, Pan Island Link 1 (PIL1) project and several main highways.
PTMP is the state’s ambitious multi-billion ringgit project to address the worsening congestion. It includes an undersea tunnel, highways, an LRT, monorail and an extensive bus service statewide.
Earlier, Ong Khan Lee (PH — Kebun Bunga) had asked Jagdeep if the state government would conduct the SIA before implementing massive infrastructure projects, including the PTMP.
In response, Jagdeep said the Penang government would ensure that the PTMP fulfil all criterias and obtain the relevant approvals under the law before it is implemented.
“This includes complying with the Town and Country Planning Act 1976, which provides the compulsory preparation and submission of SIA,” he said.