GEORGE TOWN: The Penang government has implemented several short-term measures to overcome the problem of severe road congestion throughout Penang, especially from Butterworth and Seberang Jaya towards the island.
State Transport Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari said among the measures taken was to encourage the use of public transport in the state.
"Currently, Rapid Penang has 237 buses, operating throughout the state.
"The number of buses will be increased gradually, according to the needs, to provide more efficient and quality services, including social routes," he told the state legislative assembly here today.
He was responding to a question by K. Kumaran (DAP-Bagan Dalam) on short-term measures taken to overcome the issue of severe road congestion throughout the state.
According to Zairil, the state government also fully funds Pas Mutiara My50 for free unlimited usage for all daily users.
"The state government also provides a free Central Area Transit (CAT) bus service in the city centre of George Town to create an efficient transportation system and encourage continuous use of public transport.
"In addition, a free Congestion Alleviation Transport (CAT) Bridge bus service is also provided for routes such as Bayan Baru to Seberang Jaya, Bukit Mertajam to Komtar.
"Komtar's Bridge Express Shuttle Transit (BEST) bus service is also provided for staff working in Komtar. It is very helpful in solving the problem of congestion from Butterworth and Seberang Jaya towards the island," he added.
Zairil also said that information dissemination to all highway users was also implemented through social media and electronic Variable Message Signboard (VMS) on the current traffic situation so that users could plan their journey well.
"Other measures include to increase enforcement actions and cooperate with the police to control traffic on the Penang Bridge and road junctions that experience congestion, especially during peak hours," he said.