30 U-Turn points on Pantura Highway in Bekasi closed

Bekasi Regency — A total of 30 U-turn points along the northern coastal national highway of Java (Pantura) in Bekasi Regency, West Java, have been closed by joint officials as an effort to secure the route during the exodus period and address traffic congestion.

Bekasi Metro Police Traffic Director Sugihartono explained that the U-turn closure policy aims to reduce traffic disruptions and minimise accident risks on the main exodus route, which is the Pantura corridor.

“There are quite a lot of U-turns on the Pantura route, approximately 30 locations. As of today, all of these points have been closed by traffic management units, the traffic police, and the transportation office,” he said in Cikarang, Bekasi Regency, on Saturday.

He assessed that the presence of U-turns frequently causes traffic congestion because they create lateral disruptions when vehicles manoeuvre. Additionally, these locations are often accident hotspots.

“First, they obstruct traffic, creating side disruptions. Second, they also cause traffic accidents, so we are implementing closures as part of maximising the Ketupat Jaya 2026 Operation,” he said.

He confirmed that the U-turn closures would remain in place during the Ketupat Jaya 2026 Operation or until 25 March 2026, with the option to extend until 29 March 2026 or to adjust based on traffic conditions, particularly during the Eid al-Fitr exodus and return periods.

The authorities also appealed to the public to comply with traffic regulations during the U-turn closure period, particularly during the exodus and return periods for Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah.

“Remain disciplined whilst driving and prioritise those undertaking the exodus journey. The exodus is already a tradition during Ramadan in Indonesia. For members of the public affected by the U-turn closures, please comply during the operation,” he said.