24 May EIA report on Penang reclamation project finally on display
Published by Malaysia Kini • 24/05/2017 • 08:04 pm
The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report for Penang’s South Reclamation Scheme, which is part of the Penang Transport Master Plan (PTMP), can be accessed online from today until June 23.
This puts to rest months of query as to when the EIA report would be published as certain quarters, including Natural Resources and Environment minister Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, has warned that reclamation works cannot begin until the EIA was approved.
State exco on environment Phee Boon Poh said such reports was usually on public display for one month.
“However, if there is any demand, we are willing to extend it for another one or two weeks,” Phee told reporters when met at the Penang legislative assembly.
“We have done it (extend public display) before, for example, for the Seri Tanjung Pinang II reclamation project.
“After all, we want to give ample time for the public to read and understand the report,” said Phee.
The scheme involves plans to create three man-made islands. Penang government will sell the reclaimed land for commercial and residential purposes through an open tender process. Funds generated through this exercise will finance the RM27 billion Penang Transport Master Plan.
Display at 12 locations
Critics claim that the project would have a negative impact on the environment and the livelihood of fisherfolk.
SRS Consortium has been appointed Project Delivery Partner (PDP) for the PTMP, which includes proposed highways, light rail transit (LRT) systems and other public transportation options.
Phee said the state has informed the Department of Environment (DOE) to display the report in suitable locations, to ensure accessibility for stakeholders.
“It is pointless to place the report in a location where people feel is not relevant to them,” he added.
The public can review and provide written feedback at the various locations where the report is displayed.
The document will be displayed from 8am to 5pm at the following places in Penang – the Penang Public Library, Seberang Jaya; Komtar, Level 3; Penang Island City Council hall, Padang Kota Lama; Seberang Perai Municipal Council, Jalan Perda, Bukit Mertajam; South Seberang Perai District and Land Office, Sungai Jawi; Teluk Kumbar Police Station; Fishermen Services Center, Jalan Gertak Sanggul; Fishermen Services Center, Permatang Damar Laut; Penang Department of Environment in Kepala Batas and Bayan Lepas.
The report will also be displayed at the National Library in Kuala Lumpur and the DOE library in Putrajaya.
Feedback must be submitted in writing to the DOE headquarters in Putrajaya by July 7.
The report can also be purchased for RM2,000 through Dr Nik & Associates Sdn Bhd in Penang.
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