Heavy traffic reported from Genting Sempah to Bentong on the KL-Karak Highway as balik kampung travellers flood the roads this Raya.
PETALING JAYA: As the Hari Raya Aidilfitri balik kampung exodus reaches its peak, motorists on several major highways across Peninsular Malaysia are experiencing significant delays, with the worst congestion reported along the Kuala Lumpur–Karak Expressway and the Lingkaran Tengah Utama (LTU).
Based on closed-circuit television footage monitored by the Malaysian Highway Authority (Lembaga Lebuh Raya Malaysia), traffic flow at the Gombak Toll Plaza remained relatively smooth earlier today.
However, conditions deteriorated noticeably as vehicles approached the Genting Sempah stretch, where traffic slowed to a crawl.
The congestion extended further into Bentong, with motorists advised to brace for delays of up to 40 minutes before reaching their respective destinations.
Conditions were significantly worse on the LTU, where an accident near Lepan Jaya triggered a severe 17-kilometre traffic backup stretching from Kampung Merhamah all the way to Gua Musang.
Motorists using this route are urged to exercise patience and consider alternative roads where possible.
On a more positive note, traffic on the North-South Expressway (PLUS) heading northbound was reported to be moving smoothly, despite heavy rain falling across several areas including Tapah and Bidor.
Drivers are nonetheless reminded to reduce their speed and maintain safe following distances in wet conditions.
The southbound lanes of the PLUS Expressway were similarly manageable, with traffic flowing at an acceptable pace across most stretches.
Slight increases in vehicle volume were, however, observed at several points including Nilai Utara, Seremban and Tangkak — areas that typically see heavier traffic during the festive travel season.
Motorists are advised to monitor real-time traffic updates through official channels, plan rest stops in advance, and prioritise safety over speed throughout the journey.
 The Sun Malaysia
