Return Traffic: 285,000 Vehicles Predicted to Crowd Tolls Tomorrow

The government has reminded Eid travellers not to return to Jakarta during the peak return traffic for Lebaran 2026, predicted to occur on 24, 28, and 29 March. This is because the surge in vehicle volume is estimated to exceed the outbound flow, potentially triggering congestion on several major toll road sections. Transportation Minister Dudy Purwagandhi revealed that based on data from the Jasamarga Tollroad Command Centre (JMTC), the highest peak return traffic is expected on Tuesday, 24 March 2026, with a vehicle volume exceeding 285,000 units. This condition indicates greater potential density during the return flow. “Based on the calculation data we obtained at JMTC, the peak return traffic is predicted to fall on Tuesday, 24 March 2026, with an estimated volume of more than 285,000 vehicles. This number is larger than the outbound peak on 18 March 2026, which was 270,315 vehicles,” said Dudy during an inspection of traffic flow at JMTC on Sunday (22/3/2026). According to him, regulating travel times is key to avoiding extreme density. Therefore, the government suggests that the public return to Jabotabek on 23 March by utilising collective leave, or during the period of 25 to 27 March 2026 by taking advantage of the Work From Anywhere (WFA) period. In agreement, National Police Traffic Corps Chief Agus Suryonugroho mentioned that there are three peak return traffic periods to be wary of, namely on 24, 28, and 29 March 2026. “We predict those three days will be the peak return traffic for Lebaran 2026. We urge the public to avoid those peak return traffic times so that the outbound traffic services run safely, comfortably, and securely,” said Agus. He also reminded of incentives in the form of a 30 percent toll fee discount applicable on 26-27 March 2026 on several Jasa Marga toll road sections. “We urge the public to take advantage of that discount period so that traffic distribution is more even and the journey becomes more comfortable,” stated Rivan. To anticipate the return traffic surge, Jasa Marga has strengthened services on various major toll road sections. Traffic monitoring is also conducted in real-time through the JMTC system, supported by the Travoy application, call centre, and radio broadcasts to provide the latest information to road users. In addition, the government reminds heavy vehicle drivers to comply with operational restrictions in accordance with the Joint Ministerial Decree (SKB) applicable during the period from 13 to 29 March 2026. The public is also urged to ensure the condition of vehicles and the physical fitness of drivers are in prime condition, regulate rest times at rest areas, and ensure sufficient fuel and electronic money balance before entering the toll road.