Transport Minister, Anthony Loke has announced that the Bayan Lepas light rail transit (LRT) project has received conditional approval!

Picture credit: MSN

The 29.9km long LRT is reported to begin at in the northeast corner of the island, in Komtar and head south through Jelutong, Gelugor, Bayan Lepas and the Penang International Airport, ending at the Penang South Reclamation (PSR) development.Â

The LRT project is expected to provide a fast route to the airport and will traverse densely populated residential, commercial and industrial areas. It also aims to reduce traffic congestion in the city and spur another wave of development into the state.

Picture credit: Penang Property Talk

Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers Penang chairman Datuk Dr Ooi Eng Hock hopes that the project will bring convenience to not only the local residents but also tourists and investors.

Picture credit: The Star

â€œThe LRT will divert traffic congestion. It will attract new investments, make life easier for our workforce. â€œI believe it will boost the stateâ€™s economy with another wave of growth.â€ Dr Ooi Eng Hock via The Star

Anthony Loke said in a statement that the approval with 30 conditions for the state to comply was given on Tuesday, after the ministry conducted a detailed study of the application by Penang Economics Planning Unit (BPEN)

via GIPHY

The 30 conditions include a detailed environmental impact assessment (DEIA) approval, including traffic, social and heritage assessments.

â€œI welcome public participation from the people, NGOs and all stakeholders in this public review. â€œThe relevant documents are to be exhibited in public places including government offices. â€œThe state government must also upload a copy of these documents on a website for online viewing.” Anthony Loke via The Star

Picture credit: Paul Tan

He said that the final green light would be given after responses from the public were evaluated.