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Tips from toll road operator for homebound travelers
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Map and information for homebound travelers (Courtesy of /Jasa Marga)
M
illions of people are expected to head back to their hometowns along the trans-Java and trans-Sumatra toll roads in the coming days to celebrate Idul Fitri, which will fall on June 5 or 6.
The authorities, toll road operators and other stakeholders are prepared to welcome homebound travelers that may drive along the 996 kilometer trans-Java toll road from Merak in Banten to Probolinggo in East Java and the 503 km trans-Sumatra toll road.
To help smoothen the seasonal exodus, which in the past has been marred by traffic congestion, the toll-road’s stakeholders have issued the following suggestions to long-journey travelers.
Have sufficient e-money card balance
State-owned toll road operator Jasa Marga president director Desi Arryani said the operator had prepared top-up facilities at certain toll road gates but warned that the top-up process could trigger traffic congestion.
Therefore, she called on travelers to ensure they had adequate balance on their e-money cards or enough for toll road payment during the holiday exodus along trans-Java.
“If travelers run out of money on their cards, they will contribute to the potential congestion. A second delay can easily result in congestion,” she said.
For the longest journey through trans-Java toll roads (from Jakarta to Probolinggo in East Java), a traveler can expect to spend Rp 727.500 or Rp 618.375 on certain days.
Start journey with full tanks
The Public Works and Housing Ministry said there were 75 rest stops along trans-Java toll roads equipped with fuel stations and mobile fuel stations.
However, Desi said that a full tank would help smoothen traffic.
“Indeed, state-owned energy holding company Pertamina will fill fuel tanks of vehicles, but the company will limit the amount of fuel because it will spare the fuel for other vehicles behind you. So, it is better to fill your tank before a long trip,” said Desi.
Stay healthy, keep car in good condition
Long hours on the road might take a toll on drivers. Therefore, Desi said, drivers should maintain their stamina by consuming healthy foods, supplements and vitamins. She called on drivers to use rest stops to recover.
She also stressed the importance making sure your vehicle was in good condition and that it met roadworthy standards.
The Transportation Ministry estimates that about 10.61 million private vehicles -- 3.79 million cars and 6.85 million motorcycles – will be involved in this year’s Idul Fitri exodus.
The ministry says the exodus will reach its peak on May 30 to June 1 for homebound travel and June 7 to 9 for return travel. (bbn)
