Indonesia experienced its highest-ever recorded peak in outbound traffic on March 18, 2026, as millions began the annual “mudik” – the traditional exodus ahead of a major holiday. The surge in travelers is prompting traffic management adjustments to ensure smooth journeys, officials say.
“The peak of outbound traffic was the highest in history, approximately 270,315 vehicles,” said Irjen Agus Suryonugroho, head of the National Traffic Corps, at the Jasa Marga Toll Road Command Center in Jatiasih, Bekasi, on Friday, March 20, 2026.
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To manage the increased volume, authorities implemented several traffic control measures. These adjustments proved effective in maintaining traffic flow during the peak period.
“We implemented three measures. The first was the closure of the MBZ route due to ongoing conditions. Second, we implemented a one-lane contraflow system from kilometer 36 to 47. We are still evaluating extending that contraflow to kilometer 48, creating a two-lane contraflow and from 48 to 70, a three-lane contraflow,” Suryonugroho explained.
“we were able to manage the significant traffic volume effectively, ensuring smooth passage from kilometer 70 to 414,” he added.
Rivan Achmad Purwantono, Director Utama of PT Jasa Marga (Persero) Tbk, reported that as of 6:00 a.m. Local time on March 20, approximately 1.6 million vehicles had already departed Jakarta. This represents 48% of the predicted 3.5 million vehicles expected to leave the city.
“However, we want to note that by 6:00 a.m. Today, 1.6 million vehicles – or 48% of the anticipated 3.5 million – had left Jakarta. The majority, 54.6%, are heading towards Trans Jawa,” Purwantono stated.
Vehicle volume decreased on March 19, 2026. Officials are now predicting the peak of return traffic will occur on March 24, 2026.
“In fact, on March 19, the total number of vehicles decreased to 208,825. We hope this is a significant indicator that our prediction for the peak of return traffic is March 24,” he said.
Tonton juga video “Kakorlantas Tegaskan Keselamatan Pemudik Jadi Prioritas Operasi Ketupat”
(ial/dek)
