Transport Minister Urges Avoidance of Peak Return Flow During 2026 Eid, Here Are the Congestion-Prone Dates

Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has urged the public to avoid the peak return flow during the 2026 Eid al-Fitr holidays, predicted to occur on 24, 28, and 29 March 2026. He suggested that those returning home should plan their journeys earlier to avoid traffic density, especially towards the Jabotabek region. “For this reason, we urge the public to return to Jabotabek on 23 March 2026 by utilising collective leave, or during the period of 25-27 March by taking advantage of the government’s Work From Anywhere initiative,” Dudy stated in Jakarta on Sunday (22/3/2026). Peak Return Flow Predicted to Surge Based on data from the Jasamarga Tollroad Command Center (JMTC), the peak return flow is estimated to occur on Tuesday, 24 March 2026, with vehicle volumes exceeding 285,000 units. This figure is even predicted to surpass the outbound peak on 18 March 2026, which recorded 270,315 vehicles. Meanwhile, National Traffic Corps Chief Agus Suryonugroho highlighted three peak return flow periods that need to be watched. “We predict those three days will be the peak return flow for the 2026 Eid. We urge the public to avoid those peak return flow times so that the outbound flow services run safely, comfortably, and securely,” he said. Travellers Urged to Plan Journey Times PT Jasa Marga (Persero) Tbk President Director Rivan A Purwantono also encouraged the public to follow government guidance in determining return times. “We request and ask all members of the public planning to return home to choose return times as recommended by the government,” he stated. As part of efforts to ease congestion, Jasa Marga is offering a 30 percent toll discount during the return flow period, namely on 26-27 March 2026, on several major toll roads. Optimise Services and Technology In facing the surge in return flow, Jasa Marga is strengthening services on various toll roads by optimising toll gate operations, preparing service fleets, and implementing situational traffic engineering. Additionally, traffic conditions are monitored in real-time through the JMTC system supported by digital technology, enabling quick and accurate decision-making.