The previous EIA which was done in 1996 is outdated, given the many changes that have taken place on the island since. Further, it did not include the Gurney Drive reclamation. Since the 1996 EIA was a preliminary one, the public had no opportunity for giving any feedback.

The new EIA for the PORR must cover all aspects of the project including the Gurney Drive reclamation as well, since it is part and parcel of the entire project.

We are happy to note that the Penang Chief Minister has promised that this time, the EIA will be a detailed one, as the impacts of the project are significant and major given that it involves considerable hill cutting, reclamation works and changes in the character of the Youth Park and the Penang Turf Club.

The public must be given ample time for viewing and comments if this exercise is to be meaningful and genuine in seeking public participation.

Further, the EIA must also consider all other sustainable transport options and justify why the PORR is the preferred option.

The EIA process should not just be a token process of approval of the PORR with conditions. If the public feedback and review process does not justify the need for the PORR, the Penang State Government and the Federal Government must scrap the road. For otherwise, the EIA process will be a farce, to justify a project whose environmental and social impacts far outweigh the perceived benefits.

We also welcome the Penang Chief Minister's announcement that the display of the PORR alignment has been extended for another week and that the officials from the Malaysian Highway Authority will be there to assist queries from the public.

S.M.Mohamed Idris,
President