Heavy congestion hits major highways nationwide as Hari Raya travel surges, with traffic expected to ease gradually by 8pm, says MHA.

PETALING JAYA: A surge in Hari Raya travel has led to significant congestion across several major highways nationwide, with traffic conditions worsening from mid-morning today.

According to New Straits Times, Malaysian Highway Authority (MHA) Traffic Management Centre senior engineer Saiful Ezri Jamaluddin stated that traffic began building up as early as 10.30am, particularly at key entry and exit points.

“Traffic began building up around 10.30am and is expected to remain heavy until late evening. The increase in vehicles is believed to be due to people travelling for Hari Raya celebrations in the capital before beginning their journeys back to their hometowns,” he was quoted as saying.

He noted that many travellers chose to celebrate in Kuala Lumpur before heading back to their respective hometowns, contributing to the sharp increase in traffic volume.

Among the worst-hit areas was the Gombak toll plaza, which experienced heavy congestion as vehicles streamed in and out of the capital.

“Besides the Gombak toll plaza, several other key routes have also reported congestion, including from Rawang Selatan (on the North-South Expressway) heading north, as well as from Sungai Buloh Hospital towards Rawang.

“Congestion has also been detected along the North-South Expressway involving routes from Putrajaya towards Nilai Utara, then from Nilai to Seremban, and from Bandar Ainsdale to Senawang heading north.

“In the southern region, traffic from Senai Utara to Sedenak has also been slow due to increased vehicle volume heading north,” he said.

Despite the heavy traffic, authorities have yet to determine the total number of vehicles on the road during the festive period.

“However, we expect traffic conditions to gradually improve from around 8pm.”

 The Sun Malaysia