Penang launches new bus lane trial to improve commutes

Starting next Tuesday, Penang will trial dedicated bus lane on portions of Jalan Penang and Jalan Ria, aiming to reduce travel times and boost the efficiency of Rapid Penang bus services.

The 500-metre pilot project, lasting six months, supports the Penang State Structure Plan 2030’s mission to improve public transportation across the state.

The trial addresses congestion issues that have significantly impacted the reliability of Rapid Penang buses, according to State Infrastructure and Transportation Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari.

Boosting bus efficiency and passenger safety

The dedicated bus lane initiative is expected to help buses operate with fewer delays, especially during peak hours, and improve passenger safety by keeping buses separated from general traffic.

Specifically, at Chowrasta Market, where heavy congestion is common, the bus lane will enable buses to run smoothly without interference, reducing the risk of accidents.

The pilot will be implemented on three key sections:

• Jalan Ria: 200 metres from the Jalan Ria/Jalan Dr Lim Chwee Leong intersection to Jalan Ria/Jalan Magazine.
• Jalan Penang (North Komtar): 100 metres from the Jalan Penang/Jalan Magazine/Jalan Datuk Keramat intersection to Jalan Penang/Jalan Burma.
• Jalan Penang (Chowrasta): 200 metres from the Jalan Penang/Lebuh Chulia intersection to Jalan Penang/Jalan Dr Lim Chwee Leong.

The lanes will operate daily, including public holidays, from 6:30 am to 9:00 am and 4:30 pm to 8:00 pm.

During these hours, only public buses, charter buses, taxis, and emergency vehicles will be permitted to use the dedicated lanes.

Implementing and enforcing the bus lane trial

To guide road users, the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) will install clear signage along the designated lanes. Safety cones will also mark the bus lanes during operational hours and be removed once the lanes close.

Enforcement will be a joint effort involving MBPP officers, local police, and the Road Transport Department.

The collaboration aims to ensure compliance with the bus lane restrictions and maintain smooth traffic flow in the area.

Zairil encouraged drivers in affected areas to cooperate with the trial, which is scheduled to conclude on May 19 next year.

“This pilot project is designed to assess the feasibility of dedicated bus lanes and reduce bus travel time, particularly during peak hours,” he said.

Inspired by successful projects in Kuala Lumpur, which have shortened bus travel times by up to 15 minutes, Penang aims to replicate similar benefits on its own roads.

He noted that feedback from the public will play an essential role in evaluating the effectiveness of the trial.

“The state government hopes this trial will contribute to smoother bus services and time savings, encouraging more people to switch to public transportation,” he said.