Indonesia Braces for Arus Balik Congestion as Toll Road Issues Emerge
Jakarta – As the Lebaran holiday concludes, Indonesia is preparing for the arus balik (return flow) of travelers, with authorities anticipating significant congestion on toll roads. Recent data from PT Jasa Marga (Persero) Tbk reveals that approximately 21,000 vehicles experienced issues with insufficient e-toll balances during the mudik (exodus) period, contributing to traffic bottlenecks at toll gates.
E-Toll Balance Issues Cause Delays
Jasa Marga President Director Rivan A. Purwantono stated that the 21,000 vehicles with low e-toll balances represent 4.9% of the 442,000 vehicles that transacted at the Kalikangkung Toll Gate on the Batang-Semarang Toll Road during the same period. The need for drivers to top up their balances at the toll gate created significant delays and queues. DetikFinance reported on this issue on March 24, 2026.
One-Way Traffic System Implemented
To mitigate congestion during the return flow, a one-way traffic system has been implemented nationwide. According to Voi.id, the policy began on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at 14:25 WIB, extending from KM 414 at the Kalikangkung Toll Gate (Batang-Semarang Toll section) to KM 70 on the Jakarta-Cikampek Toll section. This decision was made at the discretion of the Indonesian National Police.
Saldo Minimum Recommendations
Jasa Marga is advising travelers to ensure they have sufficient e-toll balances before commencing their journeys. For travel from Semarang to Jakarta, Class I vehicle users should prepare a minimum balance of IDR 500,000. Those traveling from Surabaya to Jakarta are recommended to have at least IDR 1,000,000 in their e-toll accounts.
Closed Transaction System Reminder
Purwantono also reminded drivers using the Trans Java Toll Road’s closed transaction system (where tolls are calculated based on distance traveled) to use the same e-toll card for both entry and exit points. Using different cards with insufficient funds will cause delays.
Top-Up Options Available
Drivers can top up their e-toll balances through various channels, including the Travoy Application, mobile banking services, retail outlets, and facilities at rest areas.
Potential for Continued Disruptions
Jasa Marga anticipates similar issues may occur during the arus balik, particularly at the Cikampek Utama Toll Gate. The company is urging travelers returning to the Jabotabek area to verify their e-toll balances before starting their trips.