IT has been reported that the planned second Penang bridge will cost RM4.3 billion.

This is a huge sum of money by any standard, even more so when one considers that a second bridge is not what Penang needs.

Another bridge will only bring more traffic to the already congested streets of Penang island.

It has been suggested that the ongoing widening of the existing Penang Bridge will not suffice as it will become congested again in a few years time.

If so, the same logic equally applies to a second bridge, which will also eventually become congested based on current trends.

What would be the authorities’ solution then? Build another bridge while Penangites struggle with bumper-to-bumper traffic?

There has to be a better option than constructing a second bridge.

For one, the existing ferry service should be upgraded.

More ferries could be obtained and more terminals built at strategic points on the island and the mainland.

There should also be adequate bus services to and from the terminals.

If indeed a third link between Penang and Seberang Prai is deemed necessary, then it should be a light rail link, one that transports people rather than congestion-causing private cars.

As with the ferry service, buses and, if possible, an extended light rail system should service both ends of the cross-channel link.

In short, the focus must be on improving the public transport system in Penang.

This is a much more efficient, cost-effective and environmentally-sustainable way of moving people, especially in a time of skyrocketing oil prices and global warming.

In this regard, RM4.3 billion, or even a portion thereof, could fund a good public transport network that will efficiently serve Penangites.

It may not be as glamorous as an “iconic” second bridge, but it would be more people-friendly, and that is surely what matters most.

Source: NST – April 21, 2008