National Day: 10,000 Expected to Flock to Old Town Square

George Town is preparing to host a large crowd for its National Day celebrations, with an estimated 10,000 visitors expected at Padang Kota Lama on August 31. The event promises a significant gathering, highlighting the community's engagement with national festivities.

To manage the influx of attendees and ensure a smooth experience, the Northeast District Police have mobilized a substantial force of 368 officers. Their primary focus will be on traffic management and public safety throughout the day's events. This deployment underscores the scale of the anticipated celebration and the logistical challenges involved.

Significant traffic disruptions are expected as a result of the celebrations. Several key roads in the George Town city center will be subject to phased closures starting on August 30. A complete road closure will be in effect from 2 a.m. on August 31 to facilitate the movement of the public and participating contingents in the parade.

Police have identified specific routes that will be closed, including Jalan Tun Syed Sheh Barakbah, Jalan Padang Kota Lama, Lebuh Light, and various other streets in the heart of the city. The "Jam Squad" from the traffic division will also be deployed to help mitigate congestion and ensure traffic flow is managed as effectively as possible.