'BALIK KAMPUNG' RUSH: TRAFFIC GRIDLOCK AS TOLL DISCOUNT DEADLINE LOOMS

KUALA LUMPUR, March 19 (Bernama) -- Traffic flow on major highways nationwide experienced severe congestion 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 was detected on routes towrads the East Coast, particularly from the Gombak Toll Plaza to Bukit Tinggi.

"Congestion in the area was observed even before the Middle Ring Road 2 (MRR2) exit, with traffic volume rising significantly after breaking of fast earlier this evening,"  she said when contacted by Bernama tonight.

She added that traffic heading north was moving slowly but remained under control along stretches from Sungai Buloh to Rawang, Slim River to Sungkai, as well as Bukit Tagar towards Lembah Beringin.

Congestion trends in the northern direction were also influenced by the aftermath of a fatal accident earlier today along the Tapah to Gopeng route, as well as increased traffic from Permatang Pauh heading towards Sungai Dua.

For southbound routes, LLM reported that traffic had begun to slow at several hotspots, including Bandar Baru Nilai to the Seremban Rest and Service Area (R&R), 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 11:59 pm.

Apart from the discount factor, many road users were also reported to have only begun their journeys tonight as most employment sectors will officially begin their holidays tomorrow.

As such, LLM advised motorists to ensure sufficient balance in their Touch 'n Go cards and adequate fuel levels to avoid inconvenience while being caught in traffic congestion.

"Motorists are also reminded to maintain a safe distance between vehicles and remain alert to any obstacles ahead to prevent untoward incidents," the spokesperson added.

So far, weather conditions along major highways have been reported to be good, compared to heavy rain earlier this afternoon in several areas such as Gombak, Tapah and Nilai.

Latest traffic updates can be obtained via the LLM toll-free line at 1-800-88-7752 or through navigation applications to help users plan their journeys more effectively.

-- BERNAMA