Stalled trailer causes massive jam

GEORGE TOWN: A stalled trailer in Jalan Paya Terubong caused a massive traffic jam yesterday.

The trailer with a 60-tonne cargo of piles stalled at 4pm on Wednesday, preventing traffic flow into three densely populated areas.

Northeast district police chief ACP Anuar Omar said the blocked road resulted in a traffic jam for thousands of commuters in the morning as they made their way to work or school.

Those coming from Balik Pulau had to turn back to use two alternative routes at Teluk Bahang or Teluk Kumbar.

Those from Paya Terubong heading towards Relau and Bayan Baru had to use a longer route via Air Itam.

Many Penangites took to social media to vent their frustration over being stuck in the traffic snarl.

A Facebook user, by the name of PH Lim, questioned why the authorities did not remove the trailer sooner.

Many also expressed their frustrations on the Penang Island City Council Facebook page and called for quick action to be taken.

Penang Local Government, Traffic Management and Flood Mitigation Committee chairman Chow Kon Yeow advised road users to seek alternative routes.

He said a crane would be used to remove the piles from the trailer before taking away the vehicle.

“Efforts are being made to send a prime mover to clear the trailer,” he said on a Facebook posting yesterday.