JOHOR BARU: Johor is making moves to ensure smooth and safe traffic flow at both the Causeway and Second Link during the coming Chinese New Year celebration.
State exco member Mohamad Fazli Mohamad Salleh said all counters at the Bangunan Sultan Iskandar (BSI) Customs, Immigration and Quarantine Complex (CIQ) and the Sultan Abu Bakar (KSAB) CIQ would be open throughout the festive season.
“There are several actions that I have discussed to control the traffic flow going out and entering the country’s two checkpoints here.
“All counters at both CIQ complexes will be open throughout the festive season.
“It is hoped that as a result of this discussion, and the hard work and commitment of all parties involved, we will be able to ensure a smooth journey,” he said in a statement yesterday.
Mohamad Fazli, who holds the works, transportation and infrastructure portfolio, said the government was committed to helping Malaysians living and working in Singapore return safely and comfortably for the festive season.
He also urged travellers to be patient as the authorities here were trying their best to avoid congestion at BSI and KSAB.
“Hopefully, the steps put in place would be able to reduce congestion at the border,” he added.
Johor police are expecting heavy traffic at major roads, including the Causeway and Second Link, in conjunction with the festive celebration.
State police chief Comm Datuk Kamarul Zaman Mamat said at present, more than 200,000 vehicles pass through KSAB daily.
“The number of vehicles, particularly cars, is expected to increase by up to two to three times, especially during peak hours.
“The number will go up in the one or two days before Chinese New Year and two to three days after the celebration,” he said when met after a “safe home” campaign walkabout at a shopping mall here.
Police would also be beefing up their presence during peak hours at both BSI and KSAB, from 120 personnel and officers to 250, he added.
Comm Kamarul Zaman said through Op Selamat, police had identified 61 hotspots for traffic congestion and 38 accident locations in Johor, which would be given priority over the 10-day operation starting today.
“Those going back to their hometown for the festive season should inform the nearest police station.
“Police will look after your property, including business premises, to ensure that no one will take the opportunity to break the law,” he said, adding that only 10% of its workforce were allowed to take leave for Chinese New Year.