With the March school holidays starting this weekend and the stepped-up checks at the checkpoints following the escape of terror suspect Mas Selamat Kestari, traffic flow through the land checkpoints at Woodlands and Tuas is expected to be heavy and slow-moving.

For departures, the build-up is expected to start this Friday evening, with return traffic building up the following weekend.

The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) recommends avoiding the congestion by rescheduling travel plans if possible to avoid the peak periods altogether.

Those who insist on braving the peak-period are advised to car-pool if possible, and maintain lane discipline to help reduce congestion.

12-SECOND CLEARANCE
Singaporeans with valid passports registered with the National Registration Office can use the Enhanced Immigration Automated Clearance System (eIACS) lanes at the Bus Halls to clear immigration within 12 seconds - at no additional cost.

To avoid holding up the customs clearance queue, you should also refrain from bringing unlawful or prohibited goods into Singapore. The list of controlled and prohibited items is listed on ICA's website (www.ica.gov.sg).

TRAFFIC INFO ON-THE-GO
Drivers can check the traffic situation at the checkpoints via:
- the Expressway Monitoring & Advisory System (EMAS) installed along the Ayer Rajah Expressway (AYE) and Bukit Timah Expressway (BKE).
- the traffic information hotline: 6863-0117
- TrafficWatch on local radio stations
- Short Message Service by dialing *112 (service provided by SingTel)