Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi argues that offering free tolls during festive seasons is not a sustainable solution to traffic congestion on toll highways. He emphasizes the need for drivers to plan their journeys in advance and adopt responsible driving practices.
PUTRAJAYA: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi stated that offering free tolls during festive seasons does not effectively address traffic congestion on toll highways. He emphasized the need for drivers to modify their behavior and meticulously plan their journeys during festive periods. According to him, the government's compensation to toll concessionaires in the form of reimbursement for waived tolls surpasses RM35 million daily.
While it doesn't involve direct cash payments, the concession extension doesn't resolve the root cause of congestion on toll roads. He made these remarks while responding to queries regarding the government's decision to discontinue the provision of free tolls during festive celebrations. Ahmad Zahid, who also holds the position of Minister of Rural and Regional Development, addressed the media following the Rural Business Challenge (RBC) 2.0 Winners Award Ceremony in Putrajaya on Tuesday, January 21st. He clarified that the Cabinet, upon the recommendation of Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, reached the decision to cease free toll offerings during festive seasons. He urged motorists to adopt proactive planning strategies for their return journeys to their destinations or cities, emphasizing the importance of scheduling trips in advance.Ahmad Zahid further stressed the necessity for a shift in driving behavior, moving away from expecting discounts or free tolls as a 'gift'. He asserted that in the absence of such 'gifts', drivers must adapt their travel plans and adopt more responsible driving practices during festive periods. Previously, Works Minister Alexander Nanta had disclosed that the Cabinet had made the decision to halt free toll provisions during festive seasons at a meeting the previous year. However, he assured that the government would implement a more targeted approach to alleviate the impact of this change. – Bernam
TRAFFIC CONGESTION FESTIVE SEASON FREE TOLLS GOVERNMENT POLICY ROAD USERS
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