Two-day toll-free travel for Deepavali

KUALA LUMPUR: Toll charges will be free for all highway users today and tomorrow in conjunction with the Deepavali celebration.

Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said the toll waiver would be given to all vehicles and at all toll plazas except for Johor’s Plaza Tol Bangunan Sultan Iskandar and Plaza Tol Tanjung Kupang.

“The ministry at its meetings with concession companies agreed to implement this toll-free travel from 12.01am on Nov 11 (today) to 11.59pm on Nov 12 (tomorrow).

“This initiative is to enhance the festive spirit of Malaysians, especially those of the Hindu faith, who will be celebrating Deepavali.

“It is also in line with the unity government’s desire to help ease the burden of people of all religions and races,” he said in a statement yesterday, Bernama reported.

Nanta said the two days were chosen to prevent excessive traffic buildups.

It can optimise the operation and coordination of additional logistics along highways, which are expected to receive 11.8 million vehicles over the two-day period.

“It is hoped that highway users will take advantage of this toll waiver to better plan their journeys and consider following the issued travel time advisory.”