Works Minister Fadillah Yusof referred to Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng’s request to seek approval for a third bridge linking Penang to the mainland in place of the proposed underwater tunnel project.

“To address questions by certain media organisations directed to my ministry, I confirm that the Penang Government has yet to submit any documents or fixed any dates to meet us.

“The Works Ministry reiterates that it is committed to a fair evaluation of the third bridge proposal.

“We remind the Penang Government to share with us all the relevant documentation so that we are able to make an informed decision in the best interests of the rakyat.

“One major document would be the almost-completed RM305 million feasibility and detailed design studies commissioned and paid for by the Penang Government for the undersea tunnel project and associated linked roads.

“Two months ago, the Penang Government had confirmed that the feasibility and detailed design studies of the 3 associated roads were 100% complete while the feasibility study for the tunnel itself was 83% completed.”

Fadillah said introducing a third link may significantly alter the dynamics of the traffic flow in the federal and state roads system.

“Therefore, the resulting traffic dispersal flow must be studied in detail and submitted as a part of the process. We do not want to exacerbate the already heavy traffic conditions on the island.

“In addition, studies will need to be made to ascertain the impact a third bridge would have to shipping and aircraft operations with its current proposed alignment.”

Fadillah reminded the Penang Government to submit these documents as soon as possible to assist the ministry in its decision-making and allow for a more productive discussion should there be any meeting.

He said the ministry looked forward to working together with the Penang Government to ascertain the feasibility and timing of the proposed third link to the mainland, in a professional manner.