As the Aidilfitri holiday approaches, the roads in Malaysia are expected to be bustling with over 1.9 million vehicles traveling along the KL-Karak (KLK) Expressway and an additional 882,000 vehicles projected to use the East Coast Expressway Phase 1 (LPT 1) over the next 11 days. This surge in traffic has prompted ANIH Berhad to implement strategic operational plans to ensure smooth traffic flow, especially in high-congestion areas.
Datin Radzimah Mohd Radzi, senior general manager of ANIH Berhad, highlighted that the increase in the number of vehicles on the KLK Expressway has exceeded 60%, while on the LPT1, the increase has exceeded 100% during peak days of the Aidilfitri holiday compared to the average daily traffic. With such a significant increase in traffic, it is anticipated that both the Gombak Toll Plaza and Bentong Toll Plaza will experience high congestion, along with the Karak Toll Plaza on the LPT1 Highway.
To address these challenges, ANIH Berhad has taken proactive measures to facilitate smooth travel for highway users. One of the key initiatives is the implementation of a Travel Time Advisory (TTA) scheduled for April 6 to 7 and April 13 to 14. This advisory, posted on the company’s social media channels and website, aims to assist and guide highway users who are returning to their hometowns or going on vacation during Aidilfitri.
In addition to the TTA, ANIH Berhad has increased the number of toll staff by 23%, totaling over 400 personnel during peak hours. This increase in manpower, along with the activation of additional toll lanes, is expected to help expedite the toll payment process and reduce congestion at toll plazas. Furthermore, 217 Malaysian Volunteer Department (Rela) members will be strategically stationed at rest and service areas (R&R) and service stops, along with 147 additional traffic division staff, to monitor, patrol, provide emergency assistance, and handle accidents for highway users, particularly during peak hours.
Radzimah also highlighted the implementation of lane channelization at the Gombak Toll Plaza, directing westbound traffic towards Kuala Lumpur to streamline traffic flow and alleviate congestion for users traveling to Ampang and Batu Caves. She emphasized the importance of prioritizing safety and courtesy when driving, using rest areas or stops when needed, obeying road signs and speed limits, and following instructions from highway staff. Additionally, she advised ensuring that e-wallet and Touch & Go cards have enough balance and planning trips carefully for everyone’s comfort and safety.
For the latest information, the public can refer to ANIH Berhad’s social media channels on Facebook @Lebuhraya Pantai Timur and X @LPTTrafik, as well as the Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM) @llmtrafik. In case of emergency, highway users can contact LPT-Line at 1-700-818-700 or the LLM line at 1800-88-7752. By staying informed and following these guidelines, highway users can contribute to a safer and more efficient travel experience during the busy holiday period.