Why Are Indonesia's Roads Deteriorating So Quickly?

Pot holes and uneven surfaces remain a common issue across many regions in Indonesia. Ironically, damage often appears shortly after roads are repaired. This not only hampers mobility and economic activity but also increases the risk of traffic accidents. Many road users complain about deteriorating surfaces that endanger drivers, especially during the rainy season.

Road and bridge construction expert Riski Wahyudi explained that poor drainage systems are a dominant cause of road deterioration in Indonesia. ‘Standing water is the primary enemy of flexible pavement (asphalt),’ he said during an interview on Wednesday, 27 May 2026.

Indonesia, as a tropical country with high rainfall, faces challenges when water isn’t properly drained, as it easily seeps into road structures. In road construction, water significantly affects pavement durability. Water penetrating the base layer weakens soil support, making the road structure softer. Consequently, vehicle pressure, particularly from heavy trucks, accelerates cracks, waves, and potholes on the surface.

In addition to drainage, road slope is often overlooked. This causes rainwater to pool on asphalt for extended periods. Persistent pooling gradually erodes the asphalt surface, creating gaps for water to seep into the road’s lower layers. Inadequate drainage channels lead to water accumulation on roads, further weakening the subsoil and causing asphalt to crack and pothole more rapidly.

Another issue exacerbating road conditions is the prevalence of over-dimensional and over-loaded (ODOL) vehicles.