Exodus traffic increases, vehicles on MBZ elevated road up 41 per cent

Traffic volume on the Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed (MBZ) elevated road began showing significant increases on Saturday evening, 14 March 2026, seven days before Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijri, as vehicles commenced their exodus from Jakarta.

PT Jasamarga Jalanlayang Cikampek (JJC), the toll road operator, recorded a notable surge in outbound traffic volumes. According to Desti Anggraeni, General Manager of Operations and Maintenance at PT JJC, the increases were particularly pronounced during night-time hours.

“Vehicle volume increases occurred throughout the day, with the most significant surge during night hours reaching 196.69 per cent compared to normal conditions,” Anggraeni stated on Sunday, 15 March 2026.

Overall, outbound traffic from Jakarta rose 41 per cent compared to baseline levels. Inbound traffic to Jakarta also recorded increases, with 28,710 vehicles entering the capital, representing a 5.7 per cent rise from the normal daily traffic volume of 27,161 vehicles. Morning inbound traffic increased by 22.25 per cent, whilst evening traffic grew by 11.54 per cent, though daytime traffic actually declined by 7.45 per cent relative to normal conditions.

Anggraeni attributed these patterns to the beginning of increased vehicle movements along the MBZ elevated road in anticipation of the Eid al-Fitr 2026 holiday period.

PT JJC issued safety guidance to road users, emphasising the importance of maintaining physical alertness whilst driving and ensuring vehicles were in proper working condition before departure. Drivers were advised to verify adequate fuel reserves and electrical capacity. The operator also cautioned that weather changes, particularly rainfall, should be anticipated as they could affect visibility and road surface conditions.

“Prioritise safety, rest if you become fatigued, and may your journey be safe and comfortable throughout your travels to your destination,” Anggraeni concluded.