Trucks Still Crossing Despite Ban; Transport Minister Demands Business Compliance
Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has expressed concern over findings that some logistics operators continue to operate three-axle or larger trucks during the freight transport operational restriction period that commenced on Friday, 13 March 2026.
“This non-compliance has resulted in increased vehicle congestion and queuing at several transport hubs, including the Gilimanuk Port area in Bali, which serves ferry services to Ketapang Port, Banyuwangi,” explained Dudy in a press statement received by Kompas.com on Sunday, 15 March 2026.
He clarified that the government had implemented operational restrictions on freight transport through a Joint Ministerial Decree (SKB) governing traffic and ferry operations during the 2026 Lebaran transport season.
This decree was issued by the Transport Ministry (Kemenhub), the Indonesian National Police (Polri), and the Public Works Ministry.
Consequently, the operation of large trucks outside these provisions is considered non-compliance with the national policy established by the government.
The Transport Minister added that the freight transport operational restrictions are being applied to maintain smooth public mobility ahead of Lebaran transport season and to ensure safety and traffic order.
However, logistics vehicles that continue to operate outside the prescribed regulations could potentially worsen congestion and increase safety risks on roads and port areas.
Dudy stressed that the government remains committed to ensuring safe and comfortable transportation services for the public during the Lebaran holiday exodus.
“The President has reminded all government officials to ensure that the public can undertake their holiday journey safely, comfortably, and smoothly. Therefore, all parties must cooperate and comply with the regulations that have been established,” said Dudy.
The government, through the Transport Ministry and relevant authorities, is consistently intensifying monitoring and enforcing compliance against vehicles violating freight transport operational restrictions.
The Transport Minister also called on all logistics businesses to comply with the policy in the interest of smooth transport flows and public safety.
Compliance with regulations, he continued, is critical to ensure that traffic and transport management during the Lebaran transport period operates effectively.
The Transport Ministry is also coordinating with various stakeholders, including the National Police, regional governments, and transport operators to ensure that operational arrangements in the field run optimally and reduce congestion at key transport hub points.