The Penang state government should build a light rail transit (LRT) system and set up a faster and frequent ferry service to curb the heavy traffic flow into the island instead of the Third Link, said a human rights organisation.

The Penang-based Aliran said the bridge-tunnel link, or Third Link, will create new arteries cutting across the island and along the sea front, and the additional traffic from these new arteries will spill into George Town's inner city and other residential areas, further congesting Penang's already narrow streets.

"If more roads are built, the additional traffic and pollution will destroy what's left of Penang's charm and dim George Town's hopes of gaining recognition as a world heritage attraction," said Aliran in its press statement today.

Aliran demanded that the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report for the proposed Third Link be made public.

The organisation also insisted that another road link to the island is not necessary; instead the government should look at ways of controlling traffic volume in Penang as the island has a limited traffic capacity.

Efficient bus service

"What we badly need is an LRT system supplemented with an efficient bus service which we do not have. Such an integrated system should cover the main commuter routes on the island and the mainland.

"If possible, there should be a train link or high-speed ferry service across the channel connected to the LRT terminals on the island and the mainland, much like Vancouver's Sea Bus ferry service," it said.

Aliran suggested that the money saved from the Third Link, Penang Outer Ring Road (PORR) and the Butterworth Outer Ring Road (BORR) can be used to build the LRT network.

"Lessons have not been learnt from the last financial crisis and the government seems to be indulging again in mega-projects in this island," Aliran added, reiterating its call to expand the ferry service as a short-term solution.

"Why has there been such a deafening silence from the government on the ferry service? Why can't we have more modern and faster ferries for now?" it asked.

Aliran also urged the state government to inform the public beforehand of the proposed toll rate for the Third Link.