H-3 Before Eid: Vehicle Volume on Cipali Toll Road Surges, Exceeding 5,400 Cars per Hour

A significant surge in the flow of vehicles heading home for Eid has been felt on the Cikopo-Palimanan (Cipali) toll road towards Cirebon, West Java. On H-3 before Eid, or Wednesday (18/3/2026), the average number of vehicles passing through reached 5,400 units per hour.

The Head of Sustainability Management & Corporate Communications Department at Astra Tol Cipali, Ardam Rafif Trisilo, revealed that this increase in traffic flow has been monitored from midnight until evening.

“The increase in vehicle traffic occurred from 00:00 to 18:00 WIB,” said Ardam in his statement in Cirebon on Wednesday (18/3).

Data from Astra Tol Cipali records that 98,000 vehicles have crossed the former Cikopo Toll Gate from Jakarta towards Cirebon during that period. This figure indicates a very sharp rise in traffic volume.

“The traffic volume increased by around 74 percent compared to the same period on the previous day,” explained Ardam.

Despite the large surge, traffic conditions are generally monitored as busy but smooth. Although there are slowdowns at several points, the operators ensure that the flow remains under the control of on-site personnel.

Ardam explained that one of the main triggers for the slowdown in flow is the number of vehicles stopping on the roadside. This is usually caused by engine troubles or driver fatigue.

“We have recorded slowdowns at several points, but overall the flow is still controlled and smooth,” he stated.

Regarding this, the operators have issued a firm advisory for travellers not to stop on the shoulder except in cases of medical or urgent technical emergencies.

“We urge road users not to stop on the shoulder, as it can disrupt the smooth flow,” Ardam emphasised.

To maintain travel comfort, road users are asked to utilise the nearest rest area for breaks. If the rest area’s parking capacity is full, drivers are advised to exit through the nearest toll gate to rest outside the toll road area before re-entering.

In addition, travellers are reminded to ensure their vehicles are in prime condition, have sufficient fuel (or battery charge for electric vehicles), and have enough electronic money balance to avoid long queues at toll gates.

Violations of truck operational restrictions exacerbate congestion.