KUALA LUMPUR: Highway users nationwide will enjoy toll-free travel today and tomorrow in conjunction with the Deepavali celebration.
Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said the toll exemption would take effect until 11.59pm on Oct 30.
He said this would apply solely to Class 1 private vehicles at all toll plazas, except the Bangunan Sultan Iskandar (BSI) toll plaza and Tanjung Kupang toll plaza in Johor.
“The government will bear the estimated cost of RM38mil for this free toll initiative, with compensation to be paid to all concession companies involved.
“This initiative aligns with the core principles of the government, in easing the public’s cost of living while strengthening unity among the nation’s diverse communities,” he said.
The Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM) said traffic volume is expected to increase, with an expected 2.62 million vehicles using the main expressways heading towards the north, south and east coast in conjunction with the Deepavali celebration on Thursday.
Its director-general Datuk Sazali Harun said 2.13 million vehicles are expected to use PLUS expressways and 198,000 vehicles will be on the Kuala Lumpur-Karak Highway.
The East Coast Highway Phase 1 is expected to see 78,220 vehicles, East Coast Highway Phase 2 (59,220) and the West Coast Expressway-WCE (153,700 vehicles).
“To deal with the increase in the traffic volume, LLM has instructed all highway concessionaires to make thorough preparations so that the journey of highway users is safe and smooth throughout this period,” he said in a statement, Bernama reported.
He said highway concessionaires have been instructed not to have any lane closures except for emergency work starting Thursday until Monday.
They were also told to ensure the operation of their respective highways and R&R areas are in good condition and to provide additional facilities such as parking space and portable toilets.
