The long-awaited bypass road linking Air Itam to the Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu Expressway has reached 91% completion, with major structural works progressing on schedule.
Paya Terubong assemblyman Wong Hon Wai said all bridge beams on the Bandar Baru Air Itam side have been successfully installed. Construction teams are now working on bridge deck slabs and parapet works.
Wong shared the latest updates after a project progress meeting with the construction team on 30 June. He said the installation of bridge beams on the Gelugor side is advancing steadily. Twelve bridge beams are expected to be lifted into place between July and August this year, while the remaining six beams are scheduled for installation in the third or fourth quarter of 2026.
The contractor has reaffirmed the project remains on track for completion in April 2027.
Once construction is completed, the relevant government agencies will conduct a road safety audit before the Public Works Department (JKR) determines the official opening date for traffic.
The elevated road project is designed to provide a direct connection between Air Itam and the Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu Expressway, improving accessibility between Penang Island’s western and eastern corridors while easing congestion on several existing routes.
Meanwhile, the Penang Infrastructure Corporation (PIC) has withdrawn traffic flagmen previously stationed near the Farlim–Paya Terubong Market and along Thean Teik Highway. The flagmen were deployed to manage traffic during the construction of the P21 and P22 portal structures, including bridge beam lifting works in front of the Paya Terubong Market.
PIC said that as major daytime construction activities at these locations have been completed, full-time manual traffic control is no longer required. Motorists are advised to follow existing traffic light signals when passing through the area. Removing the flagmen will also help avoid confusion caused by simultaneous manual traffic control and automated traffic signal operations.
Source: Kwong Wah Yit Poh
