Deepavali traffic remains smooth nationwide, but return rush expected later today

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 9 — Traffic flow on most major expressways nationwide remained smooth as of 8am today, but vehicle numbers are expected to increase later in the day as motorists return from the Deepavali and additional school holidays.

However, a Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM) spokesperson said congestion was reported along the southbound stretch of the North-South Expressway (PLUS), from Yong Peng towards Ayer Hitam, following an accident.

“The accident, which occurred at Kilometre 82.3, involved a lorry and a car, but no fatalities were reported,” he told Bernama when contacted this morning.

The spokesperson said CCTV monitoring had yet to show a significant increase in traffic heading towards the Klang Valley, possibly due to the additional holiday today.

“Traffic volume is expected to increase between 10 am and 11 am as motorists return to the federal capital from the north, south and East Coast,” he added.

In view of the ongoing Northeast Monsoon, LLM advised highway users to maintain a safe following distance to reduce the risk of incidents involving sudden braking.

“Motorists are also advised to stop and rest at rest and service areas (R&Rs) if they feel tired or sleepy, while motorcyclists are encouraged to use the shelters provided by LLM and highway concessionaires during rainy conditions,” the spokesperson said.

For the latest traffic updates, the public can call LLM’s toll-free hotline at 1800-88-7752. — Bernama