CM: Consider financial impact before abolishing toll
GEORGE TOWN: The state government has urged Putrajaya to review the financial implications of abolishing the Penang Bridge toll, as promised by Pakatan Harapan in its manifesto for the 14th General Election.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow (DAP-Padang Kota) said even though the state government was in favour of abolishing the toll, the Federal Government should look into compensating the relevant concession company.
“Efforts to abolish the toll have to be reviewed carefully, including its commercial impact, contract terms and the financial returns for the concession company. “Even though (the decision to) abolish tolls falls under the jurisdiction of the Federal Government, the state government fully supports the proposal,” he told the state assembly sitting yesterday.
Chow was responding to a written question from Lee Khai Loon (PKR-Machang Bubuk) on efforts by the state government to fulfil its promise of abolishing the Penang Bridge toll.
On a related matter, Chow said the state government had taken steps to ease congestion on the Penang Bridge.
He said the Bridge Express Shuttle Transit public transport system was introduced in 2011.
“Support from the public is encouraging and the state government will continue with this effort.
“The Penang Transport Master Plan was also developed beginning 2013 as a comprehensive method to alleviate traffic congestion, and includes a rail system and several main highways.”