The Penang Outer Ring Road (Porr) project, much like the the Penang Bridge, appears to be another Barisan Nasional project which has been put forward with minimalist thinking and considerations. The problems it will bring to the traffic and people of Penang appear not to have been the concern of those who want the Porr project to be carried out.

The 'farsighted' planners obviously had the second Penang Bridge in sight when they thought of the Porr project. Without a traffic dispersal system running on the island the second Bridge will only bring more trouble to the traffic and people of Penang. But is the Porr, the answer?

With so many groups and segment of the people of Penang up in arms against it, the feeling about the project is more Porr-dah than just Porr. Is Porr going to be worth the money spent? Will Porr truly reduce traffic congestion on the island? Will there be minimal environmental effect? Will Porr bring economic benefits to Penang and its people?

At the moment the answers to those questions appear to be no . The state government should listen and consider alternative solution or solutions to the problem at hand. Better public transport, a more efficient bus system, a light rail transport system, tram cars may provide a better solution to the traffic congestion on the island.

Looking further ahead, is there really a need for a second bridge? Will a more efficient ferry service with ferries running every 10-15 minutes be more efficient and environmental friendly in the long run? The alternative parties seem to be against Porr but have they come up with concrete plans for Penang and solutions to its present woes?