Why flyovers cannot solve Penang traffic jam problems in 2025

Source: FMT

Penang has been crowned Malaysia's most congested city in 2024, with drivers spending 27 minutes to travel just 10 kilometers.

While state officials defend massive infrastructure investments, including new flyovers and the upcoming LRT system, transport experts warn that building more roads will not solve the traffic nightmare. George Town, Penang, has snatched the crown for Malaysia's Most Congested City 2024. 

The city known for its mouthwatering street food is now also famous for something less appetizing—making drivers sit in their cars for a whopping 27 minutes just to travel 10 km. This creates serious concerns for motorists who rely on their vehicles daily and need reliable car insurance coverage for extended time on congested roads.

Transport consultant Wan Agyl Wan Hassan explains that every new road attracts more cars, making congestion worse rather than better. "Every new road just attracts more cars. Without managing demand through better buses, parking controls, or peak-hour pricing, congestion simply moves elsewhere," said Wan Agyl, founder of the think tank MY Mobility Vision. 

Instead of building more flyovers, experts recommend integrated solutions combining public transport improvements, demand management, and smarter traffic camera systems to monitor and control vehicle flow during peak hours.

The solution requires both long-term and short-term strategies that work together. "We need a 50-year solution like rail, but also five-year fixes people can see today like buses, ferries, and better traffic management," he added. 

Many Penang residents are already looking for alternatives to sitting in traffic daily, with some considering whether to sell their car and switch to public transport options. Smart financial planning tools like loan calculators can help drivers understand the true cost of vehicle ownership versus public transport in today's congested environment.

Real traffic solutions need proper planning that includes dedicated bus lanes, better ferry services, controlled parking systems, and peak-hour pricing strategies. Penang's public transport system must include efficient feeder buses, walkable infrastructure, and bike-sharing programs to ensure convenience for users. 

For those still driving, staying updated on current petrol prices becomes crucial for budgeting, especially when getting stuck in traffic burns more fuel. Motorists planning trips to Singapore should also check Woodlands Checkpoint conditions to avoid additional delays.

Ready to make smarter transportation choices?  Download the Motorist app today for real-time traffic updates, car valuation services, and comprehensive solutions for used car buying and selling. Whether you need to navigate Penang's traffic or plan your next vehicle purchase, Motorist.my provides the tools and information to make informed decisions about your transportation needs.

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