A “Penang Sky Cab” cable car system connecting Penang Sentral in Butterworth to Gat Lebuh Noordin in the island is expected to be completed in 2018.
Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng said on Wednesday (15th April) that the project was an initiative of the state government and Penang Sentral, and which was discussed from last year and was in advanced exploratory stage at present.
He said at a press conference at Komtar:
It will provide an aerial link from the mainland to the island and decrease the dependence on automobiles. The 3km link is expected to take around 15 minutes travel time. It will be able to cater to 1,000 passengers per hour per direction. It will provide an alternative form of travel in an easier, faster and more comfortable way. With the implementation, Penang Sentral will become a five-in-one travel hub offering from taxi, buses, train, ferry, and Sky Cab services
According to TRP, Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng also said that there was also a proposed observation tower in the north channel for passengers to stop and enjoy the view in the middle of the sea.
MMO wrote that he added that the project will be subject to various approvals and that Penang Sentral and the state government will also get the Penang Port Commission’s (PPC) views on it. “PPC do not have any objections to it as it does not obstruct the north channel or affect port activities,” he said.
The landing point is located on state land outside the heritage zone on the island. Penang Sentral property and retail division senior vice-president said the Penang Sentral Cable Car Station would be located next to the Penang Sentral Transportation Hub.
“The total cost of the project is still being calculated and will be revealed soon,” she said.
Sources: The Star Online, TRP, MMO / Featured image from The Star Online.
