Balikpapan-Samarinda Toll Road Remains Clear, Lebaran 2026 Exodus Peak Predicted for 18-19 March

As Eid al-Fitr approaches, traffic flow along the Balikpapan-Samarinda toll road, or Samboja toll road, in Kutai Kartanegara Regency remains smooth. As of Tuesday 17 March, no significant surge in vehicle volume has been observed in either direction between Balikpapan and Samarinda.

Field monitoring by Media Indonesia shows that traffic on the Balikpapan-Samarinda toll road continues to flow smoothly. Vehicles passing through are predominantly private cars, moving at relatively stable speeds without queues or congestion at specific points.

Officers from the Security Posts (Pospam) of Operation Ketupat Polres Kutai Kartanegara have confirmed that traffic flow conditions remain safe and manageable.

“Vehicle flow is still normal, with no significant increase yet. Traffic from Balikpapan to Samarinda and vice versa remains smooth,” said an officer at the Samboja toll security post.

In preparation for the Lebaran exodus, combined security personnel have been deployed from 13 to 25 March 2026. They are conducting intensive monitoring throughout the toll route, from the Samboja Rest Area to Palaran in Samarinda city and back towards Balikpapan.

During this monitoring period, traffic conditions remain conducive, with no reports of traffic accidents on the toll road.

“So far everything remains safe, with no traffic incidents reported,” the officer added.

Despite the relatively quiet conditions at present, police predict that the exodus surge will begin in the coming days.

“Peak exodus traffic is estimated to occur on 18 to 19 March, before Lebaran,” he explained.

Meanwhile, for return traffic, an increase in vehicle volume is estimated to occur on 23 to 24 March 2026.

Authorities urged toll road users to prioritise safety during their journeys, observe speed limits, and ensure their vehicles are in good condition. Drivers are also advised to use rest areas to avoid fatigue while driving.