Three-Axle Vehicles Restricted from Semarang Routes During 2026 Lebaran Exodus
Semarang Metro Police (Polrestabes Semarang) began enforcement of vehicle screening operations targeting heavy vehicles with three or more axles on Friday, 13 March 2026. The operation supports smooth traffic flow and maintains security and order during the 2026 Operation Ketupat Candi.
The Traffic Unit of Semarang Metro Police conducted screening of three-axle or larger vehicles in front of Mangkang Terminal, Semarang City. The operation took place on Friday at approximately 14:30 WIB.
Officers of Semarang Metro Police’s Traffic Unit screened vehicles with three or more axles arriving from the west, from Kendal direction. They subsequently redirected the affected vehicles to turn back towards Kendal.
“Based on a Three-Minister Joint Agreement, heavy cargo vehicles with three or more axles are prohibited from transiting toll roads and arterial routes from 13 to 29 March 2026. However, there are certain exemptions for vehicles carrying fuel or petroleum products, basic foodstuffs, fertiliser, livestock feed, and natural disaster relief equipment,” stated Head of the Traffic Unit of Semarang Metro Police, AKBP Yunaldi.
In addition to Semarang, screening operations are also conducted at Mranggen border areas, Demak. The screening operation is carried out by the Pedurungan Police Precinct’s Traffic Resolution Team, part of the 2026 Operation Ketupat Candi Task Force. By controlling vehicles with three or more axles transiting border routes, traffic congestion potential is expected to be minimised.
Head of Public Relations of East Java Regional Police, Kombes Pol Artanto, stated that screening of three-axle or larger vehicles forms part of traffic management strategy to maintain smooth vehicle flow, particularly ahead of increased public mobility. “This restriction on three-axle or larger vehicles is implemented to reduce the potential for traffic congestion on main routes. We urge heavy vehicle drivers to comply with arrangements established by officers in the field for the sake of smooth and safe transit for all,” said Artanto.
Through Operation Ketupat Candi 2026, East Java Regional Police are optimising various security and traffic control measures to ensure public travel activities proceed safely, smoothly, and comfortably throughout the Lebaran exodus period.