Pahang expects 2.85 million vehicles along highways for Aidiladha
KUANTAN: Pahang is expected to witness a surge in traffic, with an estimated 2.85 million vehicles projected on its highways during Aidiladha celebrations this weekend.
This figure is slightly lower than the traffic recorded during the recent Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations, which saw some 3.1 million vehicles entering the state.
State Public Works, Transport and Health Committee chairman Datuk Ir. Razali Kassim said that the balik kampung travel projection, between May 29 and June 9, would see 2.56 million vehicles on the Kuala Lumpur–Karak Expressway (KLK) and 803,000 vehicles on the East Coast Expressway 1 (LPT1).
"KLK will carry an average of 176,800 vehicles daily, with peak traffic anticipated on June 8 (Sunday), when around 184,000 vehicles are expected on the stretch. This increase is likely due to people returning to work on June 9, and schools reopening on June 10.
"LPT1 is expected to handle 73,100 vehicles daily, with traffic peaking at 97,000 vehicles on June 8, particularly along the stretch between Karak (Bentong) and Jabor," he told reporters at the Gambang Toll Plaza yesterday.
Earlier, Razali, accompanied by Pahang Road Transport Department (RTD) director Syed Ahmad Khairulanwar Alyahya Syed Abdul Rahman, distributed goodies to motorists at the toll plaza as part of the Aidiladha Road Safety Advocacy Programme.
Razali said that traffic on KLK on Sunday was expected to increase by 61 per cent compared with normal days (non-festive season), which typically sees around 110,000 vehicles, while LPT1 is expected to see a 78 per cent increase, compared with its usual 41,000 vehicles on regular days.
He reminded all road users to comply with traffic regulations, observe speed limits, and take adequate breaks during long drives, both on their way to their hometowns and during their return journeys.
"Motorists must pay attention to constant reminders to prioritise safety on the road. They should also carry out basic vehicle inspections to ensure their vehicles are in good condition," he said.
Razali said 262 RTD enforcement officers across Pahang were involved in a special operation for Aidiladha to help reduce accidents. The operation, which began on June 4, will end on June 10.
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