Oh glorious Penang.
Build to help reduce traffic congestions, the second Penang bridge was officially opened on March 1st, 2014. Here are some interesting facts that one should know about it.
1. The bridge is named after the current Yang di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia — Jambatan Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah.
2. The total cost to build the bridge was RM4.5 billion.
3. Official plans to build the bridge was revealed in August 2006 by Malaysia’s former prime minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.
4. The original design featured two viewing platforms and restaurants but they were dismissed later on due to lack of funds.
5. The bridge was initially set to launch in November 2013, but construction took longer than expected.
6. There will be five electric Mitsubishi i-MIEVs serving as patrol cars on the bridge.
7. The curves on the bridge is designed to discourage speeding and curb drowsiness among drivers.
8. The second Penang bridge stands as the longest bridge in Southeast Asia at 24km.
9. It is the world’s longest bridge that is equipped with High Damping Natural Rubber Bearing (HRDRB).
10. The first accident on the bridge occurred less than 24 hours after its opening.
Do you think the second Penang bridge will be of much help? Do let us know.
(Source)
