Jakarta – Transportation Minister Budi Karya Sumadi said holiday travelers should return early to Jakarta after their Idul Fitri break to avoid traffic gridlock on toll roads entering the capital.
Budi made his comment as he conducted an impromptu inspection – often called "blusukan" – at the Cikopo checkpoint near the Cikampek Toll exit gate in West Java on Wednesday (28/06).
Budi said travelers should try to start their journey back to Jakarta before Friday, when heavy-load trucks will be allowed again on toll roads in and out of the capital after being barred from them during the holiday.
The minister pointed out traffic back to Jakarta this year has been better than last year, but he did notice long queues in some rest areas are still causing traffic jams. "Don't hang around in rest areas for too long," Budi said.
The minister also asked travelers to check toll road opening schedules to avoid unnecessary detours. The Gringsing-Brebes toll road, for example, will be open mostly just during daytime. "We may open it in the evening as well, but only if the situation demands it," he added.
Budi said travelers should also avoid returning to Jakarta on motorcycles, and make use of free trips back to Jakarta on offer instead. "Riding your bikes [for long period] is dangerous and we need to reduce the volume of vehicles on the road," he said.
The minister said he has also instructed law enforcement officers to ground buses that do not pass roadworthiness tests since they will compromise the safety of passengers.