Heavy Traffic Anticipated at Land Checkpoints During Vesak Day Long Weekend
As the Vesak Day long weekend approaches, significant traffic congestion is expected at land checkpoints from May 8 to May 13. The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) has issued a warning to travelers, advising them to prepare for extended waiting times at immigration.
For those planning to travel during this busy period, the ICA recommends utilizing cross-border bus services as a means to mitigate congestion. Travelers are urged to cooperate with ICA officers, adhere to traffic regulations, and maintain proper lane discipline. The ICA has made it clear that they will take strict action against individuals who fail to comply with instructions or engage in any misconduct at the checkpoints.
Motorists traveling by car or motorcycle are encouraged to use QR codes instead of traditional passports to expedite the immigration process. This digital approach is designed to streamline clearance times. Additionally, drivers are cautioned against queue-cutting, which can exacerbate traffic delays. Those caught attempting to cut in line will be required to leave the queue and start over.
Bus passengers are also advised to take advantage of QR codes generated through the MyICA app, which can be used in place of passports for quicker processing at the automated lanes in bus halls.
Reflecting on recent travel trends, during the Good Friday long weekend from April 17 to April 21, over 2.4 million travelers passed through the Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints. Notably, April 17 saw a peak of 555,000 travelers in a single day. During that weekend, motorists heading to Malaysia experienced waits of up to three hours due to heavy traffic.
As the Vesak Day holiday approaches, travelers are encouraged to plan their journeys wisely to avoid the anticipated delays and ensure a smoother travel experience.