KUALA LUMPUR: A total of 25 accident-prone blackspots and 34 traffic congestion hotspots nationwide will be monitored under Ops Selamat in conjunction with the Hari Raya Aidilfitri festive period.
Bukit Aman Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department director Comm Datuk Seri Muhammed Hasbullah Ali said the operation, now in its 26th edition, will run from March 19 to 24.
"An estimated 2.3 million vehicles are expected to use major highways during the period," he said.
"The operation adopts the concept of ‘pre-emptive service’ and ‘total enforcement’, involving early preparations and coordination across all police contingents nationwide, as well as collaboration with other enforcement agencies," he told reporters after launching Ops Selamat on Tuesday (March 17).
Comm Muhammed Hasbullah said 5,544 department personnel will be deployed throughout the operation to strengthen enforcement and assist road users.
"To improve response time during emergencies, 25 Emergency Response Team (ERT) units will be stationed at 11 strategic locations along major highways, including the North-South Expressway and East Coast routes," he said.
"These teams will be on standby to provide immediate assistance to motorists facing breakdowns or emergencies," he added.
In terms of enforcement, he said the police will take strict action under the Road Transport Act 1987 against six major traffic offences, namely speeding, using mobile phones while driving, driving in emergency lanes, beating traffic lights, overtaking at double lines and cutting queues.
"The Transport Ministry, through the Road Transport Department (JPJ), will also enforce a ban on heavy vehicles on March 19 and 20 ahead of Hari Raya, and on March 28 and 29 after the festive period, to ease congestion and enhance road safety," he said.
Comm Muhammed Hasbullah said JSPT is also working with strategic partners, including Socso and Kuala Lumpur City Hall, to disseminate traffic information to the public.
"Motorists are advised to plan their journeys ahead of time, stay updated via traffic information channels and ensure their vehicles are in good condition before travelling," he said.
"They are also urged to obey traffic rules, avoid driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and remain patient and disciplined on the road," he said.
"Take precautionary measures to prevent crime before leaving your homes during the festive season," he said.
