KUALA LUMPUR, March 19 — Major highways are severely congested tonight following a sharp increase in vehicles as motorists rushed to take advantage of the final hours of the 50 per cent toll discount.
A Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM) spokesman said the worst congestion is on routes towards the east coast, particularly from the Gombak toll plaza to Bukit Tinggi.
“Congestion in the area was observed even before the MRR2 exit, with traffic rising significantly after breaking of fast earlier this evening,” she said when contacted by Bernama tonight.
She added that traffic heading north is moving slowly but under control along stretches from Sungai Buloh to Rawang, Slim River to Sungkai, and Bukit Tagar to Lembah Beringin.
Northward congestion was influenced by a fatal crash earlier today along the Tapah to Gopeng route, as well as increased traffic from Permatang Pauh to Sungai Dua.
For southbound routes, LLM reported that traffic had begun to slow at several hotspots, including Bandar Baru Nilai to the Seremban rest stop, Bandar Ainsdale to Senawang, and Pedas Linggi to Simpang Ampat.
LLM expects traffic flow to continue peaking until midnight as motorists rush to beat the deadline for the toll discount, which will end at 11.59pm.
Apart from the discount, many road users were also reported to have only started their journeys tonight as most employment sectors start their holidays tomorrow.
As such, LLM advised motorists to ensure sufficient balance in their Touch ‘n Go cards and enough fuel in their tanks.
“Motorists are also reminded to maintain safe distances between vehicles and remain alert to any obstacles ahead to prevent untoward incidents,” the spokesperson added.
Weather along major highways is fair, after heavy rain this afternoon in several areas including Gombak, Tapah and Nilai.
Traffic updates can be obtained via the LLM toll-free line at 1800-887-752 or navigation apps.
