Tourism Pulse on Trans-Sumatra Toll Road, Traffic Surges 50 Percent

JAKARTA - Traffic flow on the Trans-Sumatra Toll Road (JTTS) during the 2026 Eid al-Fitr return period is not solely dominated by regular homecoming travellers. The latest data from PT Hutama Karya (Persero) on 21 March 2026 reveals a significant surge in traffic, particularly on sections providing access to tourist areas and inter-city connections. This figure reflects a 50.58% increase compared to normal traffic, triggered by high public interest in exploring tourist destinations along the Sumatra corridor before the holiday ends. Several toll road segments recorded exponential traffic growth, especially routes facilitating access to flagship tourist attractions. The Sigli-Banda Aceh Toll (Seulimeum-Baitussalam Segment) saw the highest surge of 157.23% (8,522 vehicles), serving as the main artery for tourists heading to kilometre zero and beaches in Aceh. The Pekanbaru-XIII Koto Kampar Toll jumped 101.22% (12,343 vehicles), facilitating flow to historical and natural tourist sites in West Riau. The Padang-Sicincin Toll rose rapidly by 97.32%, underscoring West Sumatra’s appeal as a favourite destination for cuisine and nature during the long holiday. Hutama Karya has also optimised functional sections to alleviate potential congestion. The Sigli-Banda Aceh Functional Section 1 (Seulimeum-Padang Tiji Segment) has absorbed 4,642 vehicles. On the main corridor, the Palembang-Indralaya-Prabumulih Toll (Palindra) remained stable with a 39.40% increase, while the Indrapura-Kisaran Toll recorded solid growth of 69.83%. The traffic increase, dominated by private vehicles heading to tourist spots, demands extra vigilance. Acting EVP Corporate Secretary of PT Hutama Karya (Persero), Hamdani, advised road users not to force journeys if physical condition begins to decline. Road users are also reminded to ensure sufficient e-money balances to avoid queues at toll gates, especially on segments experiencing surges over 100%.