LATELY, I have noticed that many groups are coming out to protest against the development of highways in Penang. I can understand that. Penang has a lot of greenery which makes it a nice place to live in and people would like to keep it that way.

However, there is no denying that the traffic situation is getting from bad to worse. The transport infrastructure, including roads and highways, is in dire need of an upgrade. Generally, I support any development that eases the situation but it is imperative that the state government conducts a detailed study to minimise any negative impact of such development on the environment as well as people’s homes and lives.