Testing the Trans-Sumatran Toll Road Ahead of Homecoming: Watch These Critical Spots
Palembang — The Government estimates that 143.9 million Indonesian citizens will travel homeward during the Eid holidays. A range of infrastructure and public transport facilities have been prepared to support this annual routine activity among residents.
On Wednesday, 11 March 2025, CNBC Indonesia conducted a direct inspection of infrastructure and transportation readiness for citizens planning to travel homeward via land routes using private vehicles to Sumatra.
Departing from Jakarta toward Merak port in Banten using the Trans-Java toll road, conditions were reasonably good, though minor repairs were still underway at several points.
Upon arriving at the port area, homebound travellers must be prepared with ship tickets purchased in advance through a mobile application. Various service options are available to choose from according to needs.
For instance, express service tickets are charged at approximately IDR 700,000–IDR 800,000 per private car/sedan (Category IVA). Regular service costs less, at around IDR 480,000–IDR 500,000. The difference is reflected in travel duration and ship facilities.
The port condition appeared tidier. Several directional signs have been installed to assist travellers. Additional workers could also be seen already on duty, despite homecoming traffic not yet being high.
Upon arriving at Bakauheni port, homebound travellers can proceed directly to the Trans-Sumatran toll road. In addition to directional signs already in place, confused travellers can ask staff for directions to the toll entrance. Staff will be on duty 24 hours throughout the homecoming and return periods.
Do not forget to prepare electronic money with sufficient balance before entering the toll road.
Based on monitoring, road conditions from Bakauheni to Kayu Agung are relatively smooth to traverse. The toll is also equipped with rest areas for travellers wishing to rest, pray, eat and drink. SPKLU (public electric vehicle charging stations) are also available for travellers using electric vehicles.
It should be noted that not all sections along this stretch have adequate street lighting. Therefore, travellers intending to drive at night are urged to exercise greater caution.
On the Kayu Agung-Palembang section, road conditions are very poor. Travellers are strongly discouraged from speeding, as the road is potholed and uneven due to poorly executed repairs.
Major repairs are evident, with traffic management measures implemented from KM345+150 to KM348+850. When present at the location, travellers from the Kayu Agung direction are permitted only one lane to pass through.
It is hoped this can be completed before peak homecoming traffic.