Two Peak Waves of Homecoming Traffic Expected in 2026, Mark the Dates

The Head of the Road Transport Terminal Management Unit (UPTAJ) at the Jakarta Transportation Office, Zulkifli, has predicted that the peak Lebaran homecoming traffic in 2026 will occur twice: on 13 March and 18 March 2026.

The time difference is expected to occur because the travel schedules for students and workers do not coincide. “For the first peak on 13 March, it is because school holidays begin. Then the second peak on 18 March, which is usually occupied by workers,” said Zulkifli, as quoted from the official Jakarta Provincial Government website on Friday (13/3/2026).

“For 24 March, employees usually begin returning to work. Meanwhile, on 28 or 29 March, students usually return as the Lebaran transport command post closes on 29 March,” he added.

Zulkifli stated that dividing the peak homecoming and return traffic into two phases is part of the mobility management strategy during the Lebaran transport period. “This strategy is expected to be able to alleviate the density of travellers so that it is not concentrated on a single day. Imagine if school children and workers were scheduled at the same time, it would be even more chaotic and far more congested,” he explained.

Three main terminals have been prepared for the operation. One of them is the Pulogebang Integrated Terminal, which has separate management and is therefore not included in the terminals managed by UPTAJ. “This backup terminal is prepared in case the main terminals experience passenger congestion,” said Zulkifli.