Travellers face long delays amid congestion worsened by downpours and holiday traffic.

Traffic congestion at the Singapore-Malaysia Causeway, already strained due to the March school holidays, has worsened further following heavy rainfall.

In a Facebook update on 19 March, the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) reported severe delays at Woodlands Checkpoint, attributing the gridlock to a traffic tailback from Malaysia. Travellers were urged to check real-time conditions before setting off.

Commuter Collapses Amid Long Queues
Amidst the worsening situation, a commuter fainted while waiting for a bus on the Malaysian side of the Causeway, according to a report by China Press. Emergency responders were seen assisting the woman, who collapsed while surrounded by other travellers.

Frustration Mounts as Delays Stretch On
The ICA had previously warned, in a statement on 7 March, that congestion at both Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints would be significant due to the school holidays and Hari Raya Puasa celebrations.

Social media posts in the Malaysia-Singapore Border Crossers Facebook group show large crowds queueing at Woodlands Checkpoint. One commuter complained that stationary buses had blocked a key road for over 30 minutes, preventing other vehicles from passing.

Some travellers reported waiting for more than an hour, while tensions escalated in the long queues. A viral video posted on 19 March captured two men engaged in a heated altercation, allegedly over queue-cutting, with both seen shoving each other.

Authorities Advise Caution
On 20 March, the ICA reiterated its warning, stating: “Delays are expected, and travellers should monitor traffic updates before beginning their journeys.”

With continued rainfall and increased holiday traffic, authorities expect congestion to persist over the coming days.