Traffic Congestion on Sumatera's East Cross Highway Disrupts Exit Flow at Palembang-Betung Functional Toll Road

Traffic on the East Cross Highway (Jalintim) in Sumatera from Pangkalan Balai to Betung, Banyuasin Regency, South Sumatera, experienced congestion on Friday, 13 March 2026.

The congestion was triggered by vehicles experiencing mechanical difficulties on the route. As a result, vehicle speeds slowed and queues extended significantly.

The situation occurred during the early period of the 2026 Lebaran exodus when vehicle volumes began to increase.

The slowdown on this national highway section caused vehicle movement along the Pangkalan Balai–Betung corridor to proceed more slowly compared to normal conditions.

The traffic congestion on Jalintim also affected vehicles exiting the Palembang–Betung functional toll road.

According to a press release received by Kompas.com on Sunday, 15 April 2026, the situation demonstrated that disruptions at a single point on a national highway can impact traffic flow on surrounding access routes, including entry and exit areas of functional toll roads.

Road users were advised to remain vigilant and adjust their travel plans, particularly when vehicle volumes increase during the 2026 Lebaran exodus period.