Penang’s LRT Line: A Masterpiece of Infrastructure Development
Groundbreaking Ceremony Held for Sungai Pinang LRT Station
The groundbreaking ceremony for the Sungai Pinang LRT station took place today, marking a significant milestone in the development of Penang’s LRT line. The project, which is expected to cost around RM13 billion, will be completed by 2031 and will feature 21 stations, including a cross-channel bridge to Butterworth.
Cross-Channel Bridge to Connect Island and Seberang Perai
The bridge, which will be built in the second quarter of 2026, will run from the Macallum station on the island to Penang Sentral in Seberang Perai. The bridge will be designed to allow ships to pass through, with a height of 62m at its midspan. The Macallum station will serve as the main interchange station to Butterworth, allowing passengers from the island to take trains headed for Penang Sentral.
Project Overview
The LRT line will begin at Silicon Island, off the airport runway, and will stretch northwards to Komtar. The project will be completed in phases, with the first phase expected to be completed by 2026. The second phase will be completed by 2029, and the final phase will be completed by 2031.
Passenger Capacity and Train Type
MRT Corp CEO Zarif Hashim revealed that the company is targeting 60,000 passengers a day by the third year and 168,000 passengers a day in 20 years. The type of trains to be used will be decided later this year after an open tender.
Prime Minister’s Vision
At the groundbreaking ceremony, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim emphasized the importance of connecting the island and Seberang Perai. "The investors have asked for good infrastructure, which is why the federal government approved and funded the LRT. The line should ideally connect the island and Seberang Perai," he said.
FAQs
- What is the estimated cost of the LRT project?
- RM13 billion
- When is the project expected to be completed?
- 2031
- How many stations will the LRT line have?
- 21
- What is the height of the cross-channel bridge?
- 62m at its midspan
- When will the bridge be built?
- Second quarter of 2026
- What is the target passenger capacity for the LRT line?
- 60,000 passengers a day by the third year, 168,000 passengers a day in 20 years