Ministry of Transportation Urges Public to Utilise WFA During Return Flow to Avoid Congestion in Jabodetabek

JAKARTA – The return flow after the 2026 Lebaran holidays is predicted to peak with a significant surge of vehicles heading to Jabodetabek. The government is promoting flexible working strategies as one way to dampen this congestion.

The Ministry of Transportation, through the Directorate General of Land Transportation, has urged the public to utilise work from anywhere (WFA) policies to schedule their returns more flexibly.

The Director General of Land Transportation at the Ministry of Transportation, Aan Suhanan, stated that the peak return flow on 24 March 2026 is expected to be marked by a vehicle surge of up to 285,000 units on toll roads leading to Jabodetabek.

“We urge the public to make use of the WFA time provided so they can return on 25, 26, or 27 March,” he said in a written statement on Monday (23/3/2026).

He noted that WFA policies are currently implemented in the government sector and state-owned enterprises (BUMNs). However, the role of the private sector is considered crucial to broaden the impact of this policy.

“We hope that private entrepreneurs will provide flexibility to their employees to utilise WFA in scheduling their returns,” he said.

With a more even distribution of travel times, traffic density on toll roads is expected to be reduced, making the journey for returnees safer and more comfortable.

These calculations are derived from four main toll gates: Cikupa Toll Gate, Ciawi Toll Gate, Cikampek Utama Toll Gate (Cikatama), and Kalihurip Utama Toll Gate.

The Ministry of Transportation also reminds returnees to use rest facilities wisely to maintain smooth traffic flow.

“We also remind the public to make the best use of rest areas. Maximise the 30-minute time so that it can alternate with others or utilise rest spots outside the toll roads,” said Aan.

He emphasised that stopping on the road shoulder must be avoided as it is dangerous and could trigger accidents and congestion.

With coordination between the government, business actors, and the public, the Ministry of Transportation hopes that this year’s Lebaran return flow can proceed safely, securely, and comfortably.