Penang: The Penang state government is determined to implement the North Coast Paired Road (NCPR) project as an alternative to road congestion, especially for those who live and commute to Batu Ferringhi and Teluk Bahang, near here.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, State Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari stated that the project is part of the Three Main Roads and Tunnel Project, which was awarded in 2013. The total length of the project is 10.61 kilometres, including 8.41 km of land route and 2.2 km of coastal viaduct connecting Tanjong Bungah to Teluk Bahang. Construction work is expected to start in 2026 and be completed by 2031. Upon completion, the travel time from Tanjung Bungah to Teluk Bahang will be reduced from 30 to 45 minutes during peak hours to just 7 minutes. Currently, the existing road is unable to accommodate the traffic volume during long holidays or festive seasons.
Zairil highlighted that residents, traders, and tourists face risks concerning the local economy, health emergencies, and well-being due to traffic congestion. During emergencies, rescue agencies such as ambulances, fire brigade, and police also face delays. The NCPR route is planned to start from Jalan Tanjung Bungah via the coast next to the Tanjong Bungah Floating Mosque, across the sea, and connect to the land route near Shamrock, ending at Teluk Bahang.
The appointed contractor, Consortium Zenith Construction (CZC), is finalising the detailed design. Amendments to the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Study are anticipated to take a year and a half. Concurrently, the state government, through the State Economic Planning Unit (BPEN), along with the State Legal Advisor's Office and technical agencies, is preparing the Supplementary Agreement and Land Acquisition Cost Agreement with CZC.
The entire project is valued at RM2.9 billion, which includes RM500 million for land acquisition purposes. Construction may commence once the agreements are signed, while the acquisition process for private lots is expected to take between six to 12 months. Zairil emphasized that the NCPR is not merely a road project but a commitment to ensure infrastructure development aligns with economic growth. Jalan Batu Ferringgi is currently the sole route connecting George Town to Teluk Bahang. The project is poised to open new socio-economic opportunities for the northern coastal area.
According to Zairil, the significant investment reflects the state government's commitment to making Penang livable, competitive, and resilient for future generations.