Why did Penang reject cheaper ART for LRT?

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Penang's Decision to Proceed with LRT Over ART

The Penang government has not officially stated why it rejected the Trackless Tram (ART) in favour of the Light Rail Transit (LRT) for its public transportation development. However, proponents of ART highlight its significantly lower cost, faster implementation, and greater flexibility compared to LRT. A delegation from the state government reportedly visited China to study ART a few months prior to this discussion, but the findings and rationale behind the subsequent decision to pursue LRT remain undisclosed to the public.
Financial and Time Advantages of ART

ART presents a considerably more economical option, estimated to be one-tenth the cost of LRT. Claims suggest that a proposal was made to construct an ART system, including lines to the airport and Seberang Prai, for RM1 billion. This stands in stark contrast to the RM8.5 billion estimated for the LRT. Furthermore, the construction timeline for ART is projected to be significantly shorter, taking less than six years compared to the LRT's six years or more, allowing for quicker deployment of public transport solutions.
Operational and Spatial Flexibility of ART

Beyond cost and speed, ART offers enhanced flexibility in its operational design. Unlike LRT, which requires fixed tracks, ART systems allow for routes to be modified and expanded more readily. This adaptability can be a significant advantage in urban planning, allowing for adjustments to meet evolving transportation needs. Additionally, ART is considered more cost-effective in terms of operation and maintenance, and is also described as being more environmentally friendly than the LRT.
Lack of Transparency Regarding the Decision

Despite the purported advantages of ART, the state government has not publicly disclosed the reasons for its preference for LRT. While a delegation did travel to China to examine the ART system, the outcomes of this visit and the specific factors that led to the rejection of ART in favour of LRT have not been communicated to the public. This lack of transparency has led to calls for greater accountability regarding overseas working trips and the decision-making processes for major infrastructure projects.

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Why did Penang reject cheaper ART for LRT?

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