Expect delays at checkpoints ahead of Hari Raya Puasa long weekend

SINGAPORE – Plan ahead if you are planning to make a road trip north during the Hari Raya Puasa holiday period this weekend, as heavy traffic can be expected at the Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints, especially from June 23 to 26, the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) said on Wednesday (June 21).   

In its advisory to travellers, the ICA also said that, due to security checks and in the increase in traffic, delays are to be expected, and that travellers should adjust their travel plans accordingly. Motorists should also check the traffic situation at both land checkpoints before embarking on their journey, it added. 

To that end, those travellers leaving by either the Woodlands or Tuas checkpoints can find out the traffic situation in advance from LTA’s Expressway Monitoring & Advisory System (EMAS) installed along the BKE and AYE, respectively.

Another tip: Make sure your passports either belong to you, and that they are valid for at least six months. Delays have been caused by instances in which travellers presented either the wrong passport, or passports which were reported lost, the ICA said, adding that it is an offence to use the passport once it has been cancelled, according to the Passports Act – even if it has been found again. 

Those found guilty of flouting the Act are liable to be fined up to S$10,000 and/or imprisoned for up to 10 years.

You should also surrender recovered passports to the ICA within 14 days, or face committing an offence under the Passport Regulations, which could result in a punishment involving a fine of up to S$3,000 and/or imprisonment of up to two years.