KUALA LUMPUR – The West Coast Expressway (WCE) anticipates an average daily traffic volume of 150,000 vehicles on its highways starting April 6, as the “balik kampung” exodus begins ahead of the Hari Raya celebration next week.
Its chief executive officer, Lyndon Alfred Felix, said WCE will implement various additional measures to ensure smooth traffic flow during this period.
“This includes a halt on construction and maintenance work involving highway lane closures until April 17, except for emergency works.
“Provision for equipment such as tow trucks at several strategic locations to assist in cases of traffic incidents, additional support staff and emergency response teams, as well as WCE patrol officers along the highway, are prepared to provide emergency assistance in case of any eventualities,” he said in a statement today.
Apart from that, the WCE has lay-by areas with facilities such as restrooms, prayer rooms, and reload self-service kiosks available at every toll plaza, he said.
“In addition to that, motorcycle shelters are also provided along the highway for the convenience and safety of motorcycle users, especially when it rains.
“However, the public is reminded that presently, petrol stations are in the process of being constructed along the WCE, and users are advised to refuel adequately before entering the highway or at the nearby petrol stations along WCE exits,” he added.
The WCE is the latest alternative route connecting Banting, Shah Alam, Kuala Selangor, and Tg Karang in Selangor to Hutan Melintang, Teluk Intan, Seri Manjung, Beruas, and Taiping in Perak.
The opening of Section 11 of the WCE, covering a stretch of 35.5km, is expected to reduce travel time from Changkat Jering to Beruas to only 20 minutes from 55 minutes via the existing route.
“Please prioritise your own safety and that of your loved ones by practicing responsible driving.
“We can all contribute to making the highway safer for everyone,” Felix said. – April 5, 2024