GOMBAK: Around two million visitors are expected to visit Batu Caves for the upcoming Thaipusam celebration.

       Selangor police chief Comm Datuk Hussein Omar Khan said the estimation was based on last year's attendance.

       "Last year, we recorded 1.5 million visitors and based on current information given by the temple management, this year's number will be around two million," he said in a press conference at Batu Caves on Monday (Jan 22).

       He said seven roads would be closed starting 10pm Monday (Jan 22) night to ensure smooth traffic flow. Several lanes will also be narrowed.

       Among the roads that will be closed are Jalan Perusahaan heading towards Batu Caves and the Sri Batu Caves intersections heading towards the Kuala Lumpur Middle Ring Road 2 (MRR2).

       Around 1,600 policemen have also been deployed to Batu Caves throughout the period.

       Comm Hussein said that static points for security around the temple will be set up for the public when required.

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       "The area surrounding the temple has also been deemed as a no-fly zone for drones and those who wish to do so must seek permission from the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) and inform the district police headquarters.