Trucks Flood Merak Port as Banten Police Chief Urges Officers to Step Up Traffic Management

Trucks have already filled Merak Port ahead of the restrictions to be imposed during the Lebaran 2026 travel period. The Banten Regional Police Chief, Inspector General Hengki, has called on the Traffic Police to step up traffic management measures immediately.

‘There has already been an uptick in the number of three-axle trucks heading for Sumatra as restrictions on these vehicles are set to be implemented from 13 March to 29 March,’ Hengki said on Friday, 6 March 2026.

Hengki urged the traffic ranks to heighten readiness to anticipate the rise in logistics vehicles heading to the port.

‘Therefore, I ask the traffic ranks to intensify traffic control and security operations in the port area,’ Hengki said.

In addition, Hengki urged officers to remain vigilant about the weather conditions in Banten. He said rainy weather could disrupt traffic or trigger natural disasters.

Hengki called on all personnel to maintain their morale and provide the best service to the public during Operation Ketupat Maung 2026.

‘Keep up the spirit; let us demonstrate our readiness in terms of personnel, facilities and infrastructure,’ he said.

He hopes that Ketupat Maung Operation 2026, which has been prepared thoroughly, will run smoothly.

‘Hopefully, with thorough preparations, the implementation of Ketupat Maung 2026 can proceed safely, smoothly, and provide a sense of reassurance to the public,’ he added.

Earlier, as reported by Antara, a number of freight trucks were trapped in traffic congestion as they headed to Merak Port at the Merak Toll Gate and Jalan Cikuasa Atas, Cilegon City, Banten, on Wednesday (4 March 2026). The queues stretched out beyond the port area.