Impose Ban on Heavy Vehicles during Peak Hours on Penang’s Roads

The Consumers’ Association of Penang (CAP) has urged the Road Transport Department (JPJ) to impose a ban on heavy vehicles during peak hours to alleviate traffic congestion.

A CAP survey revealed that the movement of goods and construction vehicles during peak period, specifically in the morning and evening, significantly contributes to traffic congestion and disrupts the smooth flow of traffic on Jalan Masjid Negeri and Jalan Scotland.

These roads are among the busiest in Penang, and their congestion is exacerbated by the presence of several schools along the routes.

The current increase in vehicles in the city has led to substantial delays, with some commuters reporting travel times of over an hour to reach their destinations. To address this issue, it is proposed that heavy vehicles be prohibited from entering the main roads into the city centre from 6:30 am to 9:30 am and from 4:30 pm to 7:30 pm every day.

A similar measure has been in place in Kuala Lumpur since 2022, where the Road Transport Department has enforced a ban on heavy vehicles with a laden weight exceeding 7,500 kg from entering the city centre during the same peak hours. This initiative aims to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion in urban areas.

Mohideen Abdul Kader
President
Consumers Association of Penang (CAP)

Press Statement, 2 August 2024