GEORGE TOWN: At 61.5m above ground level, the tallest road in the country here is now open to traffic.

       The 3.3km-long stretch of road winds around Bukit Kukus from Lebuh Bukit Jambul to Jalan Tun Sardon and Paya Terubong.

       It connects Paya Terubong and Ayer Itam – the most densely populated neighbourhoods on the island – with the bustling Bayan Lepas industrial area.

       The elevated road features a bicycle lane.

       Penang Island City Council (MBPP) mayor Datuk Yew Tung Seang said the project is the biggest ever implemented by the council, and cost RM378.2mil for construction, land acquisition and consultancy.

       “Due to the rapid development of the island, new infrastructure is required,” he said on Thursday (Jan 13) when a portion of the 3.825km road was opened.

       He added that off-road cycling enthusiasts could also use trails under the viaduct.