Beware Severe Traffic Jams! Peak Mudik Traffic to Merak Predicted Tomorrow

Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia - Residents using private vehicles and toll roads have begun departing the Jakarta metropolitan area (Jabodetabek) towards Merak and Sumatra from Monday (16 March 2026). According to data from Jasamarga Metropolitan Tollroad Regional Division (JMT), traffic volume leaving Jabodetabek towards Merak, distributed through the Cikupa Toll Gate (GT) in Tangerang, recorded 48,217 vehicles, representing a 3.33% increase compared to normal traffic transaction volumes of 46,665 vehicles.

“Homebound traffic passing through Cikupa Toll Gate heading towards Merak has increased, with 48,217 vehicles recorded passing through, representing a 3.33% increase compared to normal traffic transactions of 46,665 vehicles,” said Widiyatmiko Nursejati, Senior General Manager of JMT in a statement, cited on Tuesday (17 March 2026).

Although there has already been an increase in vehicle volumes from Jabodetabek towards Merak and Sumatra, Jasa Marga predicts that the increase in traffic volume will continue to rise during the peak mudik period, which is expected to occur the following day (Wednesday).

“We predict that the increase in traffic volume will continue to occur during the peak homebound traffic period tomorrow,” he added.

The company urged the public to prepare themselves before travelling by ensuring their vehicles are in proper condition, that drivers are well-rested, and that they have sufficient fuel and e-toll credit to ensure comfortable travel.

“Jasa Marga also urges road users to use only one electronic card for toll road payment with a closed-loop transaction system, using the same electronic card for transactions when tapping at toll entry gates and also when tapping at toll exit gates,” he explained.