Monthly traffic management plans (TMPs) for the Penang Mutiara Line Light Rail Transit (LRT) project are being submitted and reviewed to keep pace with ongoing construction developments, said Penang infrastructure, transport and digital committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari.

He explained that the project owner, Mass Rapid Transit Corporation (MRTC), submits updated TMPs to the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) on a monthly basis. Each submission is reviewed by relevant technical departments before approval to ensure traffic flow and public safety are properly managed.

“As this is a dynamic project, the scope of work may shift from time to time. Construction locations can change and schedules may be adjusted. That is why the TMP is updated every month,” he said after attending the Penang Green Council’s PNBCAP Award Ceremony at Think City on Tuesday (Feb 10).

Zairil assured that any revisions to traffic arrangements would be communicated early through official MBPP channels and social media platforms. For public transport users, he noted that Rapid Penang would announce any bus route changes in advance.

“These are not last-minute decisions. All adjustments are carefully planned,” he stressed.

Addressing concerns over potential congestion during the upcoming festive season, Zairil said MRTC and the main contractor, SRS Consortium, have assured the state government that road closures will be kept to a minimum.

“For the Chinese New Year period, there will be no major lane closures. If works are necessary, they will be carried out at night and outside peak hours,” he said, adding that authorities aim to avoid closures entirely during festive seasons. Construction activities may continue at a reduced pace, although contractors typically pause operations for one or two days during major celebrations.

Earlier, Transport Minister Anthony Loke directed contractors involved in the Mutiara Line LRT project to intensify traffic mitigation measures, particularly as construction activity accelerates across the island. Areas near Penang International Airport are expected to face heavier traffic impact due to the movement of machinery and equipment.

Loke said the ministry has instructed contractors to work closely with local authorities and the state government to minimise disruption and ensure smoother traffic flow for road users.