The Johor-Singapore Causeway, an iconic structure over 100 years old, remains a vital artery between Malaysia and Singapore, serving approximately 300,000 commuters daily. As the busiest land crossing globally, this 1km-long bridge is set for a transformative future to meet escalating demands. Both nations have unveiled ambitious plans to alleviate congestion and enhance connectivity, with significant upgrades and expansions in the pipeline.
The Causeway plays a crucial role in fostering economic ties between Singapore and Malaysia. However, its current three lanes in either direction present a significant bottleneck. To address this, the Malaysian government has announced plans to install 21 additional bi-directional cargo booths, a substantial increase from the current 16 lanes. This expansion aims to streamline cargo movements and reduce delays for commercial vehicles.
Singapore is also making strides to enhance its infrastructure at the border. The Woodlands Checkpoint, a critical juncture on the Singapore side of the Causeway, will undergo a massive expansion over the next 10 to 15 years. Plans include increasing its size to five times its current capacity, which will necessitate the demolition and redevelopment of the Old Woodlands Checkpoint and some nearby residential areas. This expansion is crucial as the Causeway is projected to see a 40% increase in traffic by 2050.
Technological advancements will play a pivotal role in easing transit across the Causeway. The Malaysian government intends to implement QR code scanners at all entry points, facilitating passport-free travel for more seamless border crossings. Andrew Chen, a transport expert, explained that travelers will experience expedited clearance:
“When the traveller is given green light by both countries’ systems to clear, they will be verified and free to go,” – Andrew Chen
Additionally, e-gates will be extended to more travelers from "low-risk" areas, further reducing processing times and enhancing convenience.
In an effort to manage traffic flow and revenue generation, authorities are considering electronic toll gantries on the Causeway. These gantries would employ toll schedules to optimize traffic movement and minimize congestion during peak hours. Meanwhile, a visionary proposal from transport experts suggests introducing a cable car network that connects high-rise points on both sides of the Causeway. This innovative idea aims to provide an alternative mode of transport for commuters, potentially reducing vehicular traffic on the bridge.
Enhancements are not limited to vehicular infrastructure alone; pedestrian access is also receiving attention. The Johor state government plans to construct a new pedestrian walkway from Hako Hotel to the Bangunan Sultan Iskandar (BSI) customs complex. This addition will offer safe and convenient passage for those crossing on foot.
Further boosting connectivity between Johor Bahru and Singapore, the Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link is slated for completion by end-2026. This rapid transit system promises to provide an efficient and reliable commuting option for thousands of passengers daily.
On a smaller scale but equally significant, the Malaysian government intends to increase motorcycle booths at both entrance and exit points of BSI by 25. This move is expected to alleviate congestion for motorcyclists, who constitute a substantial portion of daily commuters.
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