Roadblocks on highways poses traffic hazards - Experts

SHAH ALAM - Roadblocks should not be carried out on highways as they would cause traffic congestion, risk accidents, and disrupt traffic flow, said Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia social psychologist and driver behaviour expert Professor Dr Rozmi Ismail.

Roadblocks should only be conducted when necessary, he added.

“Roadblocks should be used for the purpose of catching criminals or suspects, and I disagree with the police setting up roadblocks just to find faults or mistakes with road users,” he said.

Rozmi added that roadblocks are not recommended as they often lead to traffic jams and can cause frustration due to being stuck in traffic.

“Roadblocks can frustrate people, especially when they are running late for appointments or during emergencies.

“Moreover, roadblocks are not suitable for heavy vehicles like lorries from a safety perspective. When they brake or slow down, they require more space.

“Lorries need not only a clear road but also enough space to stop safely, making roadblocks unnecessary, especially on highways,” he said.

He said roadblocks have been common practice but are primarily used to fine road users, which is not ideal.

“If a road user is unaware of a roadblock a few kilometres ahead and is travelling at speeds exceeding 100 km/h, sudden traffic congestion can lead to accidents.

“This is not only a safety concern but also affects people emotionally due to frustration.

“For security and safety reasons, it's not advisable, particularly for heavy vehicles. Heavy vehicles should not exceed speed limits or break traffic laws,” he said.

Additionally, he added that there are alternatives to roadblocks. Many methods can be used to identify road users breaking traffic laws.

“Closed-circuit television cameras (CCTVs) can be installed at traffic lights to identify lawbreakers, as the police usually have access to our details.

“Hence, roadblocks are not necessary unless they serve a crucial purpose, such as apprehending a suspect. However, they should not last for more than two to three hours.

“I suggest utilising advanced technology to pursue lawbreakers instead of relying on roadblocks,” he said.

Echoing similar sentiments, MDS Traffic Planners and Consultants Managing Director Dr Rosli Khan said roadblocks should not be conducted on highways as they pose safety risks and disrupt traffic flow.

“Maintaining traffic speed ensures smooth traffic flow without causing major accidents.

“Conducting roadblocks with heavy vehicles is also unsafe and can put other road users at risk,” he said.

Rosli also added that authorities should address overloading issues at their source, such as the depots where goods are loaded onto lorries.

“Drivers are not responsible for the quantity of goods loaded onto their lorries. Managers and supervisors who allow overloading at depots, warehouses, or work sites are to blame,” he said.

Furthermore, he said highways should not be blocked to inspect overloading, as it is dangerous due to vehicles usually driving at high speeds on highways, typically ranging from 90 km/h to 110 km/h.

“There are alternatives to roadblocks. In other developed countries, traffic offences are monitored through cameras and videos.

“This method has proven to be the most effective and efficient without causing inconvenience to other road users. Once captured on camera, drivers of offending vehicles have no choice but to pay fines.

“Failure to pay traffic fines captured by cameras can result in severe penalties and a higher demerit points system,” he said.

Meanwhile, Universiti Sains Malaysia Transport Studies professor Prof Datuk Ahmad Farhan Mohd Sadullah said that vehicle handlers or drivers bear the responsibility for ensuring safety.

“Every vehicle handler must prioritise safety, which is fundamental,” he said.

He also stressed that vehicle handlers or drivers should be aware of their surroundings to ensure safety.

“Even in the presence of roadblocks or other situations, vehicle handlers should remain attentive and adjust their driving accordingly, as safety is fundamental,” he expressed.