Location of Malaysia's Cross-Sea Bridge Rewritten in English
Malaysia's cross-sea bridge, also known as the Second Penang Bridge, is located in Penang, an island state in northwest Malaysia. The bridge spans the Penang Strait, connecting Batu Kawan on the Malay Peninsula with Batu Maung on Penang Island. It is the longest bridge in Southeast Asia, measuring at 24 kilometers long.
History and Development
The idea for the second Penang Bridge was proposed in the 1990s as a means to alleviate traffic congestion on the first bridge and to support the growth of Penang's economy. Construction of the bridge began in 2008 and took six years to complete, with a final cost of over RM 4.5 billion.
Features and Design
The four-lane bridge is a cable-stayed structure and features a main span of 240 meters. It is designed to withstand earthquakes of up to 7.5 on the Richter scale and wind speeds of up to 200 kilometers per hour. The bridge also includes a dedicated pedestrian and bicycle lane, making it accessible for alternative modes of transportation.
Tourism and Economic Impact
The Second Penang Bridge has become a popular tourist attraction in Penang. Visitors can catch a glimpse of the scenic view of the island and the Strait from the bridge. The bridge has also contributed to the growth of Penang's economy by improving connectivity and accessibility between the island and the mainland. This has made it easier for businesses to transport goods and for tourists to access the island's attractions.
Environmental Concerns
The construction of the Second Penang Bridge has raised concerns over the impact on the environment, specifically on the marine life in the Strait. The construction of the bridge involved the reclamation of land, which has led to the destruction of coral reefs and mangroves. The ongoing maintenance of the bridge also poses a threat to the marine ecosystem. Efforts have been made to mitigate these impacts, such as the implementation of a coral transplantation program and the establishment of a green belt around the bridge.
Conclusion
The Second Penang Bridge has become a significant landmark in Malaysia, showcasing the country's engineering prowess and opening up opportunities for growth and development in Penang. While there are concerns over the environmental impact of the bridge, efforts have been made to mitigate these impacts and ensure the sustainability of the marine ecosystem in the Strait.
