Mixed reactions from Penang civil society groups to LRT

GEORGE TOWN: The announcement on the Penang light rail transit (LRT) project has been received both positively and negatively by non-governmental organisations in the state.

Civil society groups in Penang, which have been critical of the project, have expressed disappointment that the cabinet had not heeded their calls to review the need for the LRT.

Sahabat Alam Malaysia president Meenakshi Raman said the government should have reviewed the LRT project, given its huge cost and inflated projection of usage.

“We have always maintained that there is an alternative solution to tackle traffic congestion in the state, which is far cheaper and more effective, such as improving the public bus transport system.

“The fund allocated to finance the LRT project is far too high and not cost-effective,” she told the New Straits Times.

Meenakshi pointed out that the LRT depot at the Penang Silicon Island (PSI) reclamation site was controversial and being legally challenged for destruction of environmentally-sensitive areas.

“Instead of considering these issues and awaiting the outcome of the legal challenge, the cabinet’s decision is not consistent with good governance.”

On the other hand, AnakPinang fully welcomed Transport Minister Anthony Loke’s announcement on the LRT project.

Its co-founder, Timothy Tye, said it was something that AnakPinang had been championing since its founding.

“We are delighted to learn that it is gradually coming to fruition.

“We hope there will be no more hitches that will delay the implementation of the LRT, which we believe will ease the plight of Penangites on both sides of the channel.

“To the detractors of the project, AnakPinang hopes that we can close ranks and work towards a better Penang for all,” Tye said.