Police Chief: Peak Return Flow for Eid al-Fitr Predicted to Start on 24 March 2026
Medan (ANTARA) - Indonesian Police Chief General Pol Listyo Sigit Prabowo has revealed that the peak return flow for Eid al-Fitr 1446 Hijriah is predicted to occur starting from 24 March 2026.
“The peak return flow is predicted to start on 24 March 2026,” stated Listyo alongside TNI Commander General TNI Agus Subiyanto, accompanied by North Sumatra Deputy Governor Surya, after monitoring the security for the Takbiran Lebaran night at the Integrated Post in Merdeka Field of Medan Police Headquarters, North Sumatra, on Friday.
This follows the peak outbound migration for Eid al-Fitr, which began on 18 March 2026, with a 4.26% increase in vehicle volume compared to the previous year.
The Police Chief also appreciated the 3.23% reduction in traffic accident fatalities during the 2026 Lebaran outbound flow.
“We urge travellers to remain cautious. Utilise rest areas and integrated posts for breaks. Do not rush, as it could endanger safety,” said Listyo.
His side has also collaborated with the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) on weather modification operations to address potential extreme weather in Indonesia.
“All disaster task forces at integrated posts must prepare to anticipate potential floods or landslides on migration routes,” added Listyo.
To reduce the density of the return flow later, the government recommends that the public utilise the Work From Anywhere (WFA) programme from 25 to 27 March 2026.
Additionally, comply with restrictions on vehicles with three or more axles until 29 March 2026.
“I have instructed all Polri and TNI ranks to secure the Eid al-Fitr celebrations under the motto ‘Safe Migration, Happy Family’,” stated Listyo.
“This is being carried out by the North Sumatra Provincial Government to ensure the smooth flow of both outbound and return migration,” he said.
Surya also reported significant progress in post-disaster recovery across 12 districts/cities in North Sumatra.
A total of 263 landslide points, 19 road cut-off points, and 65 subsided road points have been handled on an emergency basis.
“The Simpang Rampa – Sibolga route via Batu Lubang is now connected with an open-close system. We advise travellers from Tarutung to Sibolga to use the alternative route via Poriaha for safety,” he stated.
Currently, 13 priority locations have completed the detailed engineering design (DED) for immediate permanent rehabilitation, explained Surya.