After years of anticipation by residents in South Seberang Perai, the long-awaited “Missing Lane” connecting Bandar Tasek Mutiara and Hijauan Hills has finally been completed and officially opened to traffic this Saturday.

The newly completed 380-ft road features a dual-carriageway four-lane design aimed at improving connectivity and easing congestion in the surrounding areas. The project also includes various safety and public facilities such as height restriction gantries, warning lights, speed bumps, street lighting, and road signage.

State Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Committee chairman, Zairil Khir Johari, said the project had faced numerous challenges throughout its implementation, including legal disputes, and had even been repeatedly raised during State Legislative Assembly sittings.

Despite the obstacles, he said continuous efforts from all parties ensured the project was eventually realised for the benefit of the people.

“With the opening of this road, residents, students, and parents travelling between the two areas will enjoy better accessibility, while traffic congestion in the area is also expected to improve,” he said during the official opening ceremony on Tuesday.

Also present at the event were state executive councillors Goh Choon Aik and Jason H’ng Mooi Lye.

In addition to the RM5 million road project, authorities have also installed new traffic lights at the Hijauan Hills junction, which will begin operating simultaneously with the road opening to enhance safety along the route.

The intersection upgrading works included widening Jalan Valdor, adding new street lights, and constructing speed bumps, bringing the total cost of the enhancement works to approximately RM3.5 million.

Zairil expressed hope that both projects would improve road safety, enhance traffic flow, reduce congestion in nearby areas, and strengthen the overall road network in South Seberang Perai.

He added that the road connection would significantly improve connectivity between Bandar Tasek Mutiara, Hijauan Hills, and Jalan Valdor, making daily travel more convenient for residents.

The new road also improves accessibility to six nearby schools, an issue frequently highlighted in the State Assembly due to the large residential population and schools located on both sides of the road.

For safety reasons, a 2.8-metre height restriction gantry has been installed to prevent heavy vehicles from using the road. However, keys to the barrier have been provided to the Fire and Rescue Department and volunteer fire brigade to ensure emergency vehicles can pass through when necessary.