The Penang state government is now seriously considering constructing a third bridge across the Penang Straits as an alternative to the long-proposed undersea tunnel, according to The Star.
Infrastructure and transport committee chairman, Zairil Khir Johari, confirmed that a feasibility study examining the potential of a new design, specifically a bridge or other alternatives, was completed in 2023. He stated that an implementation study focusing on the proposed bridge is currently underway and is expected to reach completion soon.
Once finalised, the new design for the third link will replace the original plan for an undersea tunnel. Zairil explained that the state will also conduct a Traffic Impact Assessment (TIA) and carry out any further necessary evaluations once the implementation study concludes.
The renewed focus on a bridge follows previous indications from Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who in February alluded to a realignment of the third link without confirming whether it would involve a tunnel or a bridge. His statement at the time hinted at a shift in the original plan, but details remained scarce.
The proposed undersea tunnel was originally part of an RM6.3 billion mega infrastructure initiative, and speculation over its viability has persisted for several years. As early as 2021, the state government had acknowledged that a third bridge was being considered as a potential replacement.
At present, Penang is served by two bridges connecting the island to the mainland: the Penang Bridge and the Second Penang Bridge. The proposed third link is intended to alleviate traffic congestion and improve connectivity between Penang Island and Seberang Prai.
