Penang to Implement Lane Reductions and Traffic Diversions as LRT Mutiara Line Works Begin in 2026

GEORGE TOWN, Nov 19: Penang motorists can expect lane reductions, temporary diversions, and congestion starting next year as major construction works for the LRT Mutiara Line get underway, the state government announced.

State Infrastructure, Transport, and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari said heavy works and partial road closures will affect routes from George Town to Bayan Lepas as the project progresses.

He said MRT Corporation (MRTC), the project developer, has prepared a comprehensive Traffic Management Plan to ensure traffic remains controlled and safe throughout the construction period.

“MRTC is also required by the Penang Island City Council to prepare detailed traffic plans for each station site. This covers areas from George Town to Permatang Damar Laut to ensure mitigation measures can be executed effectively,” Zairil said during the state assembly sitting on Wednesday.

According to him, lane reductions and temporary diversions are unavoidable and will likely cause congestion, especially during peak hours.
“However, the main traffic flow will be maintained to ensure the roads remain passable for the public,” he added.

Zairil (PH–Tanjung Bungah) was responding to a question from Lee Boon Heng (PH–Kebun Bunga) regarding steps to ease traffic congestion during the LRT project.

Zairil outlined several short-term strategies, including drone-based traffic monitoring for real-time management.

Beginning in January 2026, phased changes will be introduced, such as free-flow traffic systems, New U-turns, One-way street arrangements

Key hotspots include Jalan Magazine, the Free Industrial Zone (FIZ), and the Sunny Point junction.

“Several signalized intersections will also be reconfigured to smoothen vehicle movement. In addition, heavy vehicles will only be allowed to operate outside peak hours,” he said.

To minimize disruptions in the industrial zone, MRTC is working closely with the Free Industrial Zone Penang Companies’ Association to adjust factory operating hours.
This coordination aims to avoid clashes with worker bus movements during peak travel periods.

Zairil said road widening works are also planned at strategic locations, including near Macallum Station, Jalan Tengah, SPICE Station

The state government is urging the public to utilize public transport to reduce private vehicle use during construction.

Zairil said Congestion Alleviation Transport (CAT) bus services will be expanded, while the free Mutiara Pass for civil servants will also be extended.

Industries in the Free Industrial Zone are encouraged to introduce flexible working hours, carpooling, and improved mobility planning.

“Workers in the area are encouraged to use public buses throughout the construction phase. Transit-oriented planning will support long-term sustainable mobility,” he said.

Despite the inconvenience, Zairil said the LRT Mutiara Line will ultimately deliver major mobility, economic, and environmental benefits to Penang.

“Although there will be temporary disruptions, the Mutiara Line will bring significant improvements to public transport and overall connectivity,” he added.