Major infrastructure milestone strengthens project progress
GEORGE TOWN: The Penang Mutiara Line LRT project has taken a significant step forward as its segmental box girder (SBG) casting yard in Sungai Ular, Kulim approaches full completion, now reaching 90 per cent progress.
Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the 15.378-hectare facility will serve as a critical hub in constructing the elevated rail system, producing the concrete segments required to form the main structure of the LRT guideway.
Following his visit to the site earlier today, Chow expressed confidence that the project is progressing steadily, highlighting the increasing pace of development as construction moves into a more advanced stage.
He noted that the casting yard, which began development in April 2025, is expected to be fully completed by May 2026.
Production capacity set to accelerate construction
SRS LRT project director Adil Putra Ahmad said the facility will produce around 8,800 SBG segments for the Civil Main Contractor 1 (CMC1) package.
This package covers a 23.7-kilometre alignment linking Silicon Island to Komtar, forming a crucial section of the overall LRT network.
With a workforce of approximately 400 personnel and 20 mould sets, the casting yard is capable of producing up to 350 segments per month at peak operations. The successful casting of the first segment marks a key transition from groundwork to structural construction.
The segmental construction method has been chosen due to its efficiency and suitability for dense urban environments, allowing for faster assembly while minimising disruption to road users and enhancing safety.
Foundation works ongoing, elevated spans to follow
Piling and pier construction are currently underway across multiple sites along the project alignment. The next phase will involve launching elevated spans, each measuring 40 metres in length and consisting of 13 segments.
The first spans are expected to be installed between July and August at locations such as Bandar Seri Pinang, offering the public a clearer view of the future rail infrastructure.
Chow also noted that span launching activities are typically conducted at night in high-traffic areas to reduce congestion. However, traffic management plans may be adjusted as construction intensifies.
2031 operational target remains on track
Despite the scale and complexity of the project, Chow reaffirmed that the state government remains confident of meeting the targeted operational timeline of 2031.
He emphasised that continued coordination among stakeholders and timely approvals will be essential in ensuring the project proceeds without major delays.
Once completed, the Penang Mutiara Line LRT is expected to transform public transportation in the state, improving connectivity, easing congestion, and supporting long-term economic growth.
-wilayah.com.my
