Traffic in Penang under control at lunchtime on CNY Eve

GEORGE TOWN: Traffic flow at several major roads here is reported to be under control on Chinese New Year Eve.

State Traffic and Public Order Department chief Supt Zafri Zolkapli said the state police contingent was prepared for an increase in vehicles during the festive period.

"People will take the opportunity to spend the Chinese New Year holiday to visit the state, so we expect more vehicles during the celebrations," he said when contacted today.

Supt Zafri advised motorists to comply with traffic rules to prevent traffic congestion in the city.

A check by The Star at major roads around lunchtime, especially Penang Road, Transfer Road, Esplanade and the road to Batu Feringghi, found a steady stream of vehicles especially at popular eateries and haunts.

Traffic, however, appeared to be flowing smoothly with police and Penang Island City Council personnel seen monitoring the situation.

On Friday (Jan 28), Penang police chief Comm Datuk Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain said they expected about 50,000 cars on the road especially at hotspots during the Chinese New Year period.