Penang Rapid Bus, Ferry To Operate 24 Hours For Thaipusam

photo: rapid penang

GEORGE TOWN, Jan 9 (Bernama) -- Penang Rapid bus and ferry services will operate 24 hours a day for three days starting Jan 16, in conjunction with Thaipusam, said Penang Deputy Chief Minister II P. Ramasamy.

He said 10 shuttle buses would be in service from the jetty to Tanjung Medical Centre, Jalan Burma with passengers paying RM2 for adults and RM1 for children.

Ramasamy also urged visitors to park their cars at designated parking lots prepared by the Penang City Council (MPPP) along Lebuh Union, Lebuh Pantai, Lebuh Pasar, Padang Kota Lama and Jalan Hutton and use the bus services to avoid traffic congestion," he told reporters, here Thursday. He urged worshippers who came from Seberang Perai to use the ferry services to avoid traffic congestion at the Penang Bridge.

Ramasamy said about one million worshippers, visitors and tourists are expected to flood several locations in the Island during the Thaipusam festival which is expected to last until Jan 18.

He also warned that action would be taken against anyone found selling alcohol at temporary tents or stalls put up to usher in the Thaipusam festival. About 140 'Thanir Panthal' are expected to be set up along several roads.

As for a drastic increase in the price of coconuts from about RM1.40 to RM2.80 a piece due to the arrival of Thaipusam, Ramasamy advised the people, especially Hindus, to be moderate in their spending.
-bernama.