Get Ready: Rest Areas KM 228A and KM 229B in Cirebon Expected to Be Busy During Lebaran 2026 Mudik
Rest Areas KM 228A and KM 229B in Cirebon are being mapped as congestion hotspots during the Lebaran mudik and return flow in 2026. The two rest areas are forecast to see a rise in vehicle volume as they are popular stops for travellers taking a break.
Cirebon Police Chief, Kombes Pol Imara Utama, said the Cirebon area is one of the main ‘fatigue points’ for travellers along the route to Central Java. As such, the potential for traffic pile-ups at these rest areas needs to be anticipated early.
He explained that the anticipatory steps form part of preparations for Operation Ketupat Lodaya 2026, which will run from 12–25 March 2026. The operation focuses on security and public service during the mudik and Lebaran period.
‘The main focus of security and public service during this Lebaran operation is a humanitarian effort to provide the best service to the people,’ he said.
According to Imara, hotspot identification was carried out by mapping potential traffic density along the main route, crowded public areas, and points where vehicle flows converge. In addition to arterial routes, toll plazas — as major access points for vehicles passing through the Cirebon area — are also under scrutiny.
Apart from anticipating congestion, authorities will also implement security measures in residential areas to safeguard homes left unattended by travellers during mudik.
Meanwhile, Cirebon Regent Imron said the Cirebon Regency is one of the main corridors used by travellers heading to various parts of Java, especially Central Java. He emphasised that inter-agency coordination is essential to address the potential surge in vehicles.
‘Local governments fully support Operation Ketupat Lodaya 2026, so that people can experience a safe, comfortable, and smooth journey,’ Imron said.
Operation Ketupat Lodaya 2026 is scheduled to run for 13 days, from 12 to 25 March 2026, with a focus on safeguarding mudik routes, crowding and places vulnerable to congestion.