Behind the Popularity of Hanging Out on Flyovers: Traffic Violations and Safety Threats

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - The phenomenon of using flyovers as places to gather and relax from late afternoon into the night is inseparable from traffic safety issues. Amidst the activity of enjoying the city atmosphere, the night breeze, and the views from above, the habit of parking vehicles and congregating on the shoulders of flyovers carries potential risks that cannot be ignored.

Fundamentally, flyovers are constructed to smooth traffic flow and reduce vehicle congestion on main roads. Therefore, utilising these areas for parking or leisure is inconsistent with the intended function of road facilities.

“In principle, random parking is not permitted, especially using pavements or road shoulders which can disrupt the road, safety, and traffic flow,” Satriadi told Kompas.com via telephone on Monday (18/05/2026).

Satriadi highlighted the safety risks resulting from gathering on flyovers, which remain active routes for high-speed motor vehicles. According to him, the presence of people stopping or congregating in these areas has the potential to trigger traffic accidents.

“The function of a road is for traffic, not for parking, so it certainly creates risks of being hit, hitting others, or being involved in collisions,” he said.

Satriable noted that the Jakarta Satpol PP (Civil Service Police Unit) routinely conducts enforcement actions and provides advisories to residents and traders who utilise flyover areas for gatherings. “Yes, we do carry out enforcement, but sometimes we are not there when they are,” he added.

He further explained that the approach generally involves routine patrols and appeals to the public not to use flyovers as gathering spaces. “We will certainly conduct routine patrols to disperse them and prohibit such activities,” he stated.

He emphasised that the public is urged not to turn flyovers into social spaces as it potentially disrupts traffic flow and increases accident risks. For some motorists, flyovers serve as easily accessible stopping points that do not require significant costs for a short rest after a journey. One such individual is Aan (20), a worker from Depok, who frequently stops at the Pasar Rebo Flyover after finishing work in the Kalideres area, West Jakarta.