‘WCE an alternative for those going north’
Road users were elated at learning that one of the stretches of the West Coast Expressway (WCE) will open in time for the Hari Raya Aidilfitri holidays.
They believe that the Hutan Melintang-Teluk Intan stretch, or Section 8, would be a boon for motorists as it will be an alternative for north-bound travellers.
“If it’s true that a portion of the WCE will open before Aidilfitri, then it would be good news indeed,” said Mohd Shahril Yahya, 46, from Manjung.
“This will benefit many people. My siblings living in Kuala Lumpur often lament the horrid traffic during the holiday period.
“Opening one of the packages will be a welcome relief for locals as well as those living outstation, as it can ease traffic flow.
“The additional route will give travellers more options, especially during festive seasons when most of the highways are packed.”
University student Sobrina Sobri, 31, said she was excited to learn that one of the routes would be open in time for Aidilfitri.
“This will offer an alternative route to reduce traffic congestion, especially during the holiday period.
“Those who want to drive back to Manjung can avoid using the regular route in Hutan Melintang, which is usually packed.”
Repair works on the collapsed Banting-Taiping stretch of WCE, which began early last month, were ongoing.
Checks at the location showed that one of the two Shahpadu Expressway lanes, towards Shah Alam, was closed off for about 200m to facilitate repair works.
Efforts to speak to workers failed, while entry to the project site was denied due to safety concerns.