IPOH: About two million cars are expected to ply the North South Expressway daily during the Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations.

       Perak public transport committee chairman Datuk Mohd Zolkafly Harun said these included those heading north and south of the country, beginning on April 30.

       Mohd Zolkafly said the heavy usage of the expressway is expected to be due to the toll-free and discounted travel as announced by the Prime Minister on Monday (April 25) and many people returning to their hometowns.

       "To avoid congestion on the expressway, motorists can also use alternative roads through the Federal roads.

       "The roads are in good condition and safe to be used," he said after launching a state-level road safety programme at the Ipoh Utara toll plaza here on Tuesday (April 26).

       "We hope motorists will prioritise their own safety and to always remain patient and calm while on the road.

       "Let's not be overly excited to go home to celebrate Hari Raya, which may cause unwanted incidents and forget about the traffic laws," he said, adding that a joint operation on road safety will be conducted by the police, Road Transport Department and four other agencies between April 29 and May 8.

       Mohd Zolkafly also said all road works on the expressway will be halted between April 29 and May 9.

       "This is to allow motorists to drive comfortably on the road," he said.