Johor cops expect heavy traffic

Bumper to bumper: Heavy traffic could be seen on the Johor Baru-bound side of the Causeway yesterday. — THOMAS YONG/The Star

JOHOR BARU: Johor police are expecting heavy traffic along major roads, including highways, due to the public holidays in conjunction with GE15.

Its chief Comm Datuk Kamarul Zaman Mamat said that with this in mind, police would be stationed at several known hotspots, especially along the North-South Expressway.

“We expect there will be heavy presence of vehicles, in particular those coming from outside Johor to their respective hometowns to cast their votes on polling day on Saturday.

“Road users, especially drivers, must make sure that their vehicles are in good condition before starting on their journey home,” he said when contacted.

Comm Kamarul Zaman added that drivers should always adhere to traffic rules and practise patience and courtesy while on the road.

“Do not speed and play with your mobile phones while driving,” he said.

Comm Kamarul Zaman also said those who would be leaving their homes for a long period of time should report it at the nearest police station.

“Just like during festive season where many people are going back to their hometowns, they should inform the matter to the police if they travel in GE15.

“Police will help safeguard their properties,” he added.

On Tuesday, caretaker Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob declared Nov 18 and 19 as public holidays in conjunction with GE15.

On free tolls, the Prime Minister said it would be available on highways provided by 30 concessionaires for first-class private vehicles.

The free tolls start from 12.01am on Nov 18 till 11.59pm on Nov 19.

This is expected to benefit some 90% of highway users.