In a bid to address the persistent traffic congestion on the Kuala Lumpur-Karak Expressway (KLK), the Federal Government has given the green light for a widening project set to commence in the second quarter of 2024. Menteri Besar Pahang, Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail announced the long-term measure as a strategic move to enhance the traffic flow along the vital expressway.
The widening project, entrusted to concessionaire Anih Berhad, will focus on the stretch from the Gombak Toll Plaza to the intersection of Lingkaran Tengah Utama, Bentong. The comprehensive initiative aims to alleviate congestion, enhance safety, and improve overall road conditions for commuters.
Wan Rosdy highlighted key components of the project, including the construction of an additional tunnel, improvements to road shoulders, and the installation of street lights along the route. These measures are designed to ensure the safety and comfort of road users, particularly during peak travel times.
Expressing concern over the frequent traffic congestion along the 42-kilometer stretch from Bentong Toll Plaza to Gombak Toll Plaza, Wan Rosdy stressed the need for immediate action. He disclosed that the state government had convened a meeting with Anih Berhad and the Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM) to discuss strategies to address the congestion issue.
To tackle the immediate challenges, Wan Rosdy outlined short-term measures. These include scheduling improvement works during non-peak hours and implementing lane segregation at the Gombak Toll Plaza (westbound) based on destinations such as Batu Caves and Ampang. The goal is to minimise the issue of ‘weaving’ and streamline traffic movement efficiently.
As part of the short-term strategy, two tidal flow locations will be introduced at KM55-59 eastbound and KM60-56 westbound. The implementation of these measures is contingent on achieving a traffic ratio of 70-30 (west-east) through efficient traffic dispersion, aiming to mitigate congestion effectively.
The widening project for KL-Karak Expressway signifies a concerted effort by the government to address long-standing traffic concerns and enhance connectivity. As the project gears up for commencement, stakeholders anticipate a significant improvement in traffic flow, ensuring a smoother and more convenient travel experience for commuters on this crucial expressway.
