travellers heading to Johor, Malaysia via the Causeway on Friday evening, from Polling Day till the end of this long weekend — are finding themselves stuck in a massive eight-hour jam.
The Cause of the Gridlock
Unprecedented Voting Turnout
The primary cause of this unprecedented traffic jam can be attributed to the high voter turnout on Polling Day. About 52 per cent of Singapore’s eligible voters had cast their votes from 8 am to 12 pm. This surge in early voting led to a significant influx of vehicles heading towards the Causeway.
Long Weekend Getaways
Additionally, with Polling Day falling on a Friday, many Singaporeans took advantage of the long weekend to plan getaways to neighboring Malaysia. The combination of holidaymakers and voters resulted in a perfect storm of traffic congestion.
Scenes from the Jam
Photos of the situation at the checkpoint showed a dire scene with human bodies packed closely together. The chaos and frustration were palpable as travellers inched their way towards the border. It wasn’t just the roads that were gridlocked; even pedestrian passages were teeming with people.
Alternative Routes and Tips
Consider Postpone Travel
If you’re planning a trip to Johor on a significant day like Polling Day, it might be wise to consider postponing your travel plans. The long queues and delays can be highly inconvenient, and there’s no guarantee that the situation will improve quickly.
Stay Informed
Keep an eye on real-time traffic updates and news reports before embarking on your journey. Being well-informed about the current traffic situation can help you make better decisions and possibly find less congested routes.
Conclusion
The eight-hour traffic jam on the Johor Causeway during Polling Day was an unfortunate ordeal for many travellers. While high voter turnout and holiday getaways played a significant role in the congestion, it serves as a reminder to plan your travels carefully on important days like these. Staying informed and considering alternative routes or postponements can save you from hours of frustration.