Slopes and Rest Areas Become Congestion Hotspots on Semarang-Solo Toll Road

SEMARANG – Travellers planning to traverse the Semarang-Solo toll road are advised to make thorough preparations during the Eid al-Fitr outbound and return traffic periods in 2026. Several points along this route are expected to once again become congestion-prone areas, particularly rest areas and sections with undulating terrain that could cause vehicle slowdowns. Managing Director of PT Transmarga Jateng (TMJ), Prajudi, stated that the characteristics of the toll road are a primary concern ahead of the return traffic surge. During the return period, congestion on uphill sections is anticipated due to slowing vehicles. Meanwhile, rest areas could lead to long queues, especially if vehicle volumes increase significantly. “For the rest areas, we have anticipated this by placing officers at the entrances. So, if queues start backing up onto the main road, we will close the rest area,” he said. “At the Banyumanik toll gate, we will implement traffic arrangements adjusted to the incoming traffic volume,” he added. Enhancing service capacity is also part of the preparations, from adding operational booths to using mobile readers to speed up transactions. These measures are expected to reduce vehicle queues at the toll gates. “Additionally, if a rest area is full, one alternative is to exit at the nearest gate and rest in the closest city,” Prajudi said. “We urge that vehicles be in good condition. For example, tyres should be in proper shape, and engines checked to avoid issues on the road,” he added. With these preparations from both toll operators and road users, the return traffic on the Semarang-Solo toll road is hoped to proceed more smoothly, safely, and comfortably.