Heavy traffic expected at land checkpoints for year-end holidays; record number of travellers on Dec 13
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Car travellers leaving Singapore during peak periods on Dec 13 had to wait for up to three hours to clear immigration due to traffic tailback from Malaysia, said ICA.
ST PHOTO: EUGENE TAN
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SINGAPORE - Travellers can expect very heavy traffic at Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints during the upcoming Christmas and New Year holidays, and are advised to factor in extra waiting time.
The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) said in a statement on Dec 19 that more than 3.4 million travellers crossed the land checkpoints during the first week of the year-end school holidays, between Nov 15 and 21.
On Dec 13, more than 553,000 travellers crossed in a single day, surpassing the previous peak of more than 543,000 travellers on Sept 6.
Car travellers leaving Singapore during peak periods had to wait for up to three hours to clear immigration due to traffic tailback from Malaysia, said ICA.
“Travellers are advised to factor in additional waiting time, especially over the weekends,” it added. “Alternatively, travellers can consider taking the cross-border bus services.”
Travellers are also advised to cooperate with ICA officers, observe traffic rules and maintain lane discipline.
The agency also urged motorists to check the traffic situation at the land checkpoints before embarking on their journey.
Those travelling by car, motorcycle and bus are encouraged to use QR codes in lieu of passports for faster and more convenient immigration clearance, said ICA.
“Refrain from queue cutting as it can cause severe congestion and compromise the safety of other motorists.”
