Starting from Nov 19, Penang will begin a six-month trial bus lane project on portions of Jalan Penang and Jalan Ria. The 500-meter pilot project intends to improve the effectiveness of Rapid Penang bus services, which have been hampered by traffic congestion, resulting in delays in buses arriving at their stops and terminals. This comes after the successful implementation of a dedicated bus lane program in Kuala Lumpur.Zairil Khir Johari, the chairman of the state infrastructure and transportation committee, stated that the purpose of the pilot project is to find out whether dedicated bus lanes are feasible and to cut down on bus travel time, especially during peak hours. He expressed optimism that the program will be successful in reducing bus travel time. The six-month pilot project, which is expected to improve passenger safety, particularly at the Chowrasta Market bus stop, will operate daily, including public holidays, from 6.30am to 9am and 4.30pm to 8pm. Zairil added that only public buses, charter buses, taxis, and emergency vehicles will be permitted to use the bus lanes.
