ROAD users are advised to plan their journey ahead of the Penang Bridge International Marathon (PBIM) which is set to take place on Dec 17.
The event has attracted some 20,000 participants worldwide.
Insp Aizad Muhaimin from the Penang contingent police headquarters Traffic Enforcement and Investigation Department announced the closure of the Penang Bridge (first bridge) from midnight to 10 am on Dec 17.
“If the situation clears up quickly, there’s a possibility we might reopen the Penang Bridge before 10 am. However, rest assured it will not be later than 10 am.
“A total of 300 police personnel will be on duty during the event,” said Aizad during a press conference today.
Insp Aizad also added that similar to the previous year, several other roads would be closed down in stages from Dec 16, starting at 11pm, with traffic diversion starting at 9pm.
Assistant Superintendent Police (ASP) Zulkifli Ahmad from the Penang contingent police headquarters traffic unit said participants can park their vehicles at Queensbay Mall, the Q1 and Q2 car park areas.
Visitors are also encouraged to park their vehicles near the Bayan Lepas free industrial zone and surrounding areas.
Residents residing near the road closure area, including The Light and other affected areas, will have access to their homes. Additionally, motorists can use an alternative route to reach Batu Maung and Penang International Airport.
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said out of the 20,000 participants, 3,800 participants registered for the Full Marathon, 7,750 for the Half Marathon, and the rest for the 10km category.
“To enhance the convenience of the public and participants, the Penang ferry service will also be extended from 10pm (Dec 16) to 6am (Dec 17). The Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah Bridge will remain open for the public,” he added.
For more information on road closures, the public is encouraged to visit the official Facebook page of the Royal Police Malaysia (PDRM) at https://www.facebook.com/PolisPulauPinang/about?locale=ms_MY
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Alissala Thian