Contra-flow lanes, an innovative solution to the persistent issue of peak-hour city traffic congestion, are gaining significant support. Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye, Chairman of the Alliance for Safe Community, strongly advocates for this strategy, citing its potential to make a considerable difference in easing crippling traffic jams.
“Seeing underutilized lanes during rush hour is a common sight. The introduction of contra-flow lanes could leverage these lanes to reduce the burden on congested roads,” Thye noted in a recent interview. He also highlighted the necessity for well-placed indicators and enforcement officers to oversee this new system, ensuring its smooth implementation.
Thye is confident that with appropriate enforcement, drivers who don’t adhere to the new system can be managed effectively. Moreover, he advocates extending the current contra-flow operation times from 5pm-7pm to 8pm, given the observable persistence of heavy traffic well into the evening.
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Expected to be operational from July 3, the first three contra-flow lanes will debut in Kuala Lumpur, aiming to alleviate the notorious peak-hour traffic. Anthony Loke, the Transport Minister, detailed the routes, including from Sungai Besi toll plaza to Besraya Interchange and Jalan Maharajalela to Taman Connaught, which will be accessible to all public vehicles excluding motorcycles.
Furthermore, a contra-flow lane will be added from Ampang Point to Jalan Tun Razak, exclusively for public transport buses. The lanes will initially be active between 6am to 9am and from 5pm to 7pm, giving stakeholders ample time to adapt.
To ensure the effectiveness of this initiative, guidelines are being drafted by the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (Miros). These contra-flow lanes are a testament to innovative traffic management strategies, moving us one step closer to smoother, less congested city commutes.
As reported by The Star.
