In a statement, the coalition of NGOs said it is best for independent and global experts to weigh in on the master plan and decide on a long-term goal in tackling Penang’s public transport and traffic issues.
It said the cost of such a review would be small compared to what it called a “crippling” RM46 billion price tag and the state would stand to save a lot of money.
It was reported recently that the authorities had failed to get a RM1 billion loan to kickstart the reclamation of a three islands project which, in turn, would be used to finance the PTMP.
Part of the loan sought was expected to go to the proposed Light Rail Transit (LRT) project costing RM8.4 billion and a major highway to be dug through the hills also at a cost of RM8 billion.
“Can future generations of Penang residents cope with this burden? Should they have to?” asked Penang Forum.
“Coastlines, hills, rivers, parks, scarce state land, lower building heights and densities, sustainable livelihoods are all being traded.
“Reclamation will directly affect the lives of thousands of fishermen and decrease the supply of fish, resulting in higher prices. It will cause long-term siltation and pollution.”
It said Penang should seriously consider the Autonomous Rail Rapid Transit (ART) or the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system.
The ART is a bus, train and tram hybrid which runs on rubber wheels and is driverless.
“Estimates are that ART would cost one-tenth of the construction cost of an LRT system.
“These are ‘low-hanging fruits’ involving speedy and affordable implementation, no digging, little disruption. Why are these non-disruptive alternatives not being seriously considered?
“A re-think and a change of plans will not involve compensation as we are informed no money has been paid and no works have started,” it said.
The proposed 22km elevated LRT project from Komtar to Bayan Lepas has been criticised over its alignment, expected ridership and the high costs of running a line.
Experts said Penang did not have the population to keep the line profitable and expect it to be a loss-making venture.
Although proponents said it would have a ridership of 42 million a year in its first year, an expert from London’s Centre for Transport Studies said this was unrealistic for Penang’s small population and warned that losses of RM1.2 billion were possible if it did not meet the target number in 10 years of operation.
Supporters of the project said the LRT is the best bet for Penang because of increased congestion on the roads as it would be elevated and allow the trains to travel without interruption.
They said government grants and subsidies will help public transport, such as Singapore spending RM12 billion and London receiving RM3.7 billion in grants for public transport.