Purwakarta Mudik Route Riddled with Potholes, Similar to Cikopo

Pothole-riddled roads remain a problem as motorists travel along the Lebaran mudik route for Lebaran 2026 (1447 H) in Purwakarta Regency, West Java, particularly along the central Sadang–Subang route and the Northern route from the Cikopo toll gate to the Mutiara junction in Karawang. The holes gape wide, with diameters ranging from small to large. The holes are on alternative routes such as Sadang–Subang, Cikopo–Sadang, as well as Cikopo–Pentingan–Mutiara, and Cikampek. Beyond the holes, the surface of the Sadang–Subang Arteri and Cikopo–Jalan Mutiara is uneven and cracked, posing dangers to road users. Public street lighting (PJU) is still minimal, so mudik travellers must be extra cautious when passing along the Sadang–Subang Arteri route and Cikopo–Jalan Mutiara. Ipda Heri Susanto, the head of the Turjawali unit of Purwakarta Police, said the Purwakarta Police have sent letters to local government about the extensive road damage and lack of traffic signs. “We have sent letters to the relevant agencies to address the issue promptly so that during the mudik journey road users can travel comfortably and safely,” said Ipda Heri Susanto, on Thursday (5/2). Several vehicles have reportedly suffered tyre blowouts, and there have even been traffic accidents due to the poor road conditions. “From the Cikopo toll gate to the Mutiara junction congestion is common due to many potholes, endangering road users, especially motorcycle riders,” said Rian, an online motorcycle taxi driver who typically operates at the Cikopo hub. Rosad, a resident who frequently travels along the route, voiced similar complaints. He said road damage has been ongoing since 2025. Although repairs were carried out, the road condition deteriorates again. “Often patched, but damaged again. The road becomes congested and prone to accidents, especially during rain when many large trucks pass. Drivers who do not know the route will be worried,” Rosad said.