Lebaran Return Traffic in Kutai Kartanegara Increases, Traffic Remains Smooth
Return traffic for Lebaran in the Kutai Kartanegara area, East Kalimantan, has shown a significant increase in recent days. Vehicle movements from the Nusantara Capital (IKN) area and surrounding regions continue to flow towards Balikpapan and Samarinda, particularly during the afternoon and evening hours.
Based on field observations, the surge in vehicle volume is dominated by private cars carrying returnees who spent the Eid al-Fitr holiday with their families. Additionally, a number of tourists who previously visited the IKN area and nearby destinations are now returning to their respective home cities.
Despite the increase, traffic conditions are generally still monitored as smooth and under control. Vehicle flow on several main road sections shows no significant density, both on the route to Balikpapan and towards Samarinda. Vehicle speeds are relatively stable, although slowdowns occur at some points due to high entry and exit activity.
Similar conditions are observed at the Samboja Toll Rest Area in Kutai Kartanegara. This rest facility is starting to be crowded with road users taking time to rest before continuing their journey. In addition to resting, drivers are also seen refuelling, checking vehicle conditions, and purchasing food and drinks.
A guard officer at the Pos Ketupat of the Kutai Kartanegara Police Resort at the Samboja Toll Rest Area, Resa, said the increase in vehicle traffic has been felt in recent days, although it has not yet reached its peak.
“For now, there has indeed been an increase in vehicle volume, especially from the direction of IKN towards Balikpapan and Samarinda. However, traffic flow is still monitored as smooth and there has been no significant congestion,” she said when met at the location on Wednesday (25/3/2026).
She explained that activity at the rest area is also increasing along with the growing number of passing vehicles. Many drivers are utilising the available facilities to rest before continuing their long journey.
“Road users are starting to crowd the rest area, both for resting, refuelling, or simply buying food and drinks. But overall, it remains orderly and there is no buildup,” she added.
Meanwhile, joint officers from the police, transportation department, and related agencies continue to be deployed at several strategic points. Security is focused on traffic nodes, main intersections, and areas prone to congestion. Officers are also actively regulating vehicle flow and providing reminders to drivers to remain cautious during their travels. Monitoring is carried out periodically, both through field posts and traffic surveillance systems.
Resa added that they predict the peak of return traffic will occur in the next few days, as the long Eid al-Fitr holiday period ends.
“We urge the public to maintain their physical condition, ensure their vehicles are in good condition, and utilise rest areas to avoid fatigue while driving,” she concluded.
With the readiness of officers in the field and the increasing awareness of road users, it is hoped that the Lebaran return traffic in Kutai Kartanegara can proceed safely, smoothly, and under control until all returnees arrive at their respective destinations.