A massive traffic jam is reported to have occurred at the North-South Expressway (Plus) at the Sungai Besi Toll Plaza heading to the city centre this morning following the closure of the Smart tunnel.

A Plus spokesperson when contacted this morning said the congestion was detected to have occurred since 6.30am.

Traffic on the lane heading to Seremban, however, was moving smoothly, the spokesperson said.

Stormwater Management And Road Tunnel (Smart) in a statement today said that its highway had been closed to traffic from 8pm last night due to a heavy downpour and to enable the Smart flood tunnel to be operational.

“We appeal to motorists for their patience and cooperation and heed our advice on the closure through the media announcement, variable message sign (VMS), Smart Tunnel website at www. smarttunnel.com.my; twitter @smarttunnel or via Smart Tunnel Facebook,” it said.

The Malaysian Highway Authority (MHA) operations room, when contacted, said that several areas were experiencing traffic jams believed to be due to the heavy rain.

Among the areas that were experiencing traffic congestion were the New Klang Valley Expressway from Shah Alam heading towards Subang and Elite Highway from Putrajaya heading towards Seafield, the spokesperson said.

- Bernama