GEORGE TOWN, January 5 — The Penang Island City Council (MBPP) will introduce a two-hour parking limit in George Town’s busiest areas this year to reduce congestion and promote equitable use of parking spaces. Mayor Rajendran Anthony announced that a trial run would precede full implementation, with measures including restricted loading times on main roads, a shuttle service to Penang Hospital, and full-time personnel to address double-parking. Parking fees will also increase by 50% in March.
Rajendran emphasized that traffic jams are often caused by narrow streets and improper parking, with long-term street parking creating further issues. To encourage public transport usage, the council is expanding free shuttle services and trialing dedicated bus lanes, such as one already tested on Penang Road. “Our goal is not to eliminate traffic but to control it better, especially during peak hours,” he said, urging residents to embrace public transport and reduce car use in congested areas.
