Smooth Road Infrastructure, Returnees Appreciate Mudik Services in Central Java

Several returnees passing through Central Java during the 2026 Lebaran mudik and return flow have expressed appreciation for the condition of the road infrastructure and the supporting services prepared by the government.

This is because the Central Java Provincial Government has maximally provided services to returnees transiting the province.

Haikal Faiz (18), a returnee from Grobogan heading to Jakarta, assessed that the condition of roads in Central Java is now far better than a few years ago.

“Compared to two years ago, there have been many changes now. There are still some potholed spots, but overall it’s good,” he said, after refuelling at the Weleri Kendal Ring Road SPBU on Tuesday, 24 March 2026.

The two-wheeled vehicle driver rated public facilities such as mosques and SPBUs used for resting as clean and adequate.

“The cleanliness is maintained, the water is clear, so it’s comfortable for resting,” he said.

However, Haikal hopes for additional mudik posts at strategic points to assist returnees during traffic congestion.

Another returnee from Kudus heading to Jakarta, Edi, admitted that his mudik experience was comfortable and smooth, especially regarding road infrastructure.

“A month ago, I saw that the Semarang-Kudus road was badly damaged and potholed, but yesterday we returned very smoothly,” said Edi.

In agreement, Tio Setiawan (36), a returnee from Banjarnegara, also appreciated the quality of the roads during this year’s mudik and return flow.

“The infrastructure is good, the roads are smooth. The journey was relatively smooth,” he said while stopping at the Jatingaleh KM 424 Rest Area in Semarang City, heading to Jakarta.

Tio admitted to witnessing some road incidents, but they did not disrupt the overall journey.

Meanwhile, Ken Aditya (40), a returnee from Sumenep heading to Jakarta, described the routes in Central Java as in prime condition.

“From Solo to Semarang, it’s all good, no potholes. So the journey was smooth without obstacles,” he stated.

He also appreciated the rest area facilities, which he rated as complete and clean, from places of worship to culinary areas.

“The facilities are complete and well-maintained, so returnees can rest comfortably,” he said.

He admitted to staying overnight in Solo for a day to visit the Surakarta Palace and enjoy the local cuisine.

On the other hand, the Central Java Provincial Government has also ensured health services for returnees remain on standby during the mudik and return flow period.

A health officer at the Weleri Toll Exit Mudik Post in Kendal, Marlina, stated that services were open from 16 to 25 March 2026 and operated 24 hours a day.

“Each shift has two officers. Returnees who come typically undergo minor health checks like blood pressure monitoring,” she explained.

She added that visitor numbers at the toll exit post were relatively steady due to one-way traffic arrangements, while returnee numbers at rest areas tended to be busier.

The Central Java Provincial Government continues to urge returnees to remain cautious, maintain physical condition, and utilise the provided facilities and service posts for safety and comfort during the Lebaran return journey.

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi assured that the road infrastructure in Central Java is in good condition and has not caused significant complaints from the public. Additionally, traffic accidents have decreased.

“This shows that it’s not just the road factor, but public awareness in traffic is also improving,” he said.

For information, national and provincial roads in Central Java are indeed ready for returnees during Lebaran 2026. This is because the majority of national and provincial roads in Central Java are in stable condition.