Health Minister Urges Rest Every 3 Hours to Reduce Accident Risks During Return Flow

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has urged the public undertaking return journeys to rest every three hours. This advice was given to safeguard the safety and health of drivers during long trips to their destinations. The government has prepared various supports, including free health check services for drivers of private and public vehicles. These efforts are aimed at reducing accident risks triggered by driving fatigue. “In addition, our message is that the journey is still long. Every three hours, if possible, stop. We appreciate Jasa Marga for preparing rest areas, so as not to feel drowsy and fatigued,” Budi said at the Kalikangkung Toll Gate, Central Java, on Tuesday (24/3/2026). He explained that fatigue and drowsiness are among the main causes of road accidents. These risks occur not only on toll roads but also on arterial routes frequented by two-wheeled vehicles. The government is also encouraging the use of alternative transport modes like trains to carry motorcycles. This scheme is expected to reduce congestion and mitigate accident potentials on land routes. “Alhamdulillah, accident incidents have decreased this year during the homecoming period,” Budi stated. National Police Chief General Pol Listyo Sigit Prabowo reported that as of 24 March, around 2,380,401 vehicles had exited Jakarta via toll roads. The peak return flow is expected today alongside the implementation of national-scale traffic engineering. He explained that the national one-way system is in effect from KM 414 Kalikangkung to KM 70 Cikatama. This engineering is complemented by traffic flow regulations and the use of functional tolls to avoid vehicle build-ups heading to Jakarta. “Therefore, utilise all facilities provided by the government, whether in rest areas, service posts, or integrated posts. For those who are fatigued, it is hoped they rest and do not force themselves,” Listyo Sigit said. Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi estimated that the number of vehicles at today’s return flow peak will reach 285,000 units. The government is managing rest areas through an open-close system to maintain traffic smoothness. Road condition information can be accessed via the Travoy application and Korlantas information channels. Travel arrangements are also promoted through the work from anywhere (WFA) policy to distribute vehicle flow more evenly. Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Pratikno stated that the implementation of the national one-way system is part of efforts to improve services to the public. This policy is expected to maintain the smoothness of the return flow and provide a sense of security for road users. The government continues to remind the public to prepare journeys thoroughly and maintain physical condition while driving. Compliance with the advice is a key factor for a safe and smooth return flow.