Expect heavy traffic across the Singapore‑Malaysia land checkpoints during the Deepavali long weekend, transportation officials warned. The busy holiday will see thousands of motorists and public‑transport users heading to and from the border, so drivers should plan ahead and look for alternative routes if possible.
Why the congestion happens
The Golden Triangle of commerce—Singapore, Johor Bahru, and Melaka—always sees a surge in traffic during major festivals. Deepavali, the Hindu festival of lights, draws families who travel for celebrations, shopping, and visiting relatives on both sides of the border. The rush is not limited to cars; buses and vans also pile up at the checkpoint gates and the aforementioned checkpoints, causing long lines and slowed movement.
Where the traffic peaks
- Woodlands Checkpoint (Singapore): This junction handles a mix of cars, buses, and VIP traffic. Incidents at the checkpoint can ripple into the next few miles of road.
- Johor Bahru Causeway (Malaysia): A major artery for commuters and tourists that often turns into a bottleneck during peak hours.
- Klang Valley (Malaysia): A significant intake point for travelers from Singapore entering Malaysia, with a second wave of traffic as people head further inland.
What drivers should do
- Check traffic updates regularly on Google Maps or Waze.
- Start your journey earlier to avoid peak hours. If you’re flexible on timing, try to leave Singapore before 8 am or after 2 pm.
- Consider alternative routes, such as the Pulau Indah bridge or the Tanjung Pagar–Pelabuhan Klang route, though these may also have higher traffic volumes.
- If you’re on a bus or taxi, allow for longer travel times. The trip to Johor Bahru or Melaka can extend from the usual 30‑min drive to up to an hour or more.
Travel tips for visitors
- Bring a portable water bottle; checkpoints frequently have long waiting periods.
- Eat beforehand or bring snacks and drinks.
- Have your documents ready—passport for Singaporeans and the passport, visa, or travel documents for Malaysians.
- If you plan to visit Singapore from Malaysia, be aware that the Singaporean side may impose road congestion charges in certain areas during the weekend.
Roads to watch
- A1 and A2 highways on the Malaysian side, especially near the Glandang‑Kuala Langat interchange.
- Orchard Road and the Marina Bay area in Singapore see a surge due to festivities and shopping, causing street closures for certain events.
Experts note
Traffic experts suggest that while delays are expected, systematic crowd control and clear signage at checkpoints can reduce frustration. Officials are also expanding surveillance and improving communication to improve the traffic flow.
Final advice
If you can stretch your travel schedule, a day or a couple of days before the Deepavali weekend might offer a smoother, lower‑traffic experience. Otherwise, make sure to leave early, bring snacks, and stay calm while you navigate the bustling border traffic that is sure to fuel the Deepavali celebrations in both Singapore and Malaysia.
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