Air Itam–Tun Dr LCE bypass completion pushed to April 2027 following 2nd time extension
The completion date for the second package deal of the Air Itam–Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu Expressway (LCE) bypass has been pushed from subsequent 12 months to April 12, 2027, following the approval of a second extension of time (EOT). In keeping with Guang Ming Each day, Penang Infrastructure Company (PIC) confirmed that the extension was accredited on June 16 this 12 months.
PIC stated the delay stemmed from the time required to acquire permission to begin work on part six of the mission, which wanted an in depth technical analysis by the Malaysian Freeway Authority. The approval was granted underneath Clause 49.1(f) of the contract, which offers with delays brought on by pending approvals, permits or permissions from statutory our bodies or native authorities.
The primary EOT, extending the deadline to Oct 31, 2026, was granted on Oct 30, 2023 resulting from land acquisition processes affecting key stretches of the alignment. PIC emphasised that extensions are accredited solely when contractors can justify delays with technical proof, and that each EOT functions underwent thorough evaluate by the point extension committee.
PIC reiterated its dedication to delivering the remaining works inside the revised schedule.
The 6km toll-free bypass will function a 1.8km ground-level stretch, with the rest consisting of elevated viaducts (65%), tunnels (20%) and grade sections (15%). It’ll embody three interchanges: Lebuhraya Thean Teik, the Jalan Bukit Gambir–Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah junction, and the LCE interchange that includes a left-in, left-out entry and an elevated U-turn.
Costing RM851 million, the bypass is a part of the broader RM6.3 billion undersea tunnel and three main roads mission. PIC, a state special-purpose car, can also be accountable for different main initiatives, together with the Silicon Island growth close to Batu Maung and initiatives underneath the Penang Transport Grasp Plan.
