RRI.CO.ID, Cirebon – Travel volume on the Cikopo-Palimanan (Cipali) toll road in West Java has skyrocketed as the annual Lebaran homecoming exodus nears its peak, with vehicle counts jumping 74 percent compared to the previous day. Data recorded on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, or three days before Eid (H-3), showed a relentless flow of travelers moving from Jakarta toward Central and East Java.

Antara reported that approximately 98,000 vehicles passed through the former Cikopo Toll Gate heading toward Cirebon during the first 18 hours of the day. This influx pushed traffic density to an average of 5,400 vehicles per hour along the critical West Java artery.

“The increase in vehicle flow has been occurring since 12 p.m. until 6 p.m. Jakarta time,” remarked the Head of the Sustainability Management & Corporate Communications Department at Astra Tol Cipali, Ardam Rafif Trisilo, in a statement released in Cirebon on Wednesday.

Despite the heavy volume, authorities described the overall traffic situation as manageable. While several bottlenecks caused intermittent slowing, the primary lanes remained functional for the thousands of families making their way home.

"We noted slowing at several points, but in general, the flow is still under control and smooth," Ardam remarked, noting that the surge is a standard characteristic of the pre-holiday rush.

To prevent unnecessary congestion and ensure safety during the high-density period, the toll road operator reminded motorists to strictly adhere to traffic regulations regarding the use of emergency lanes. The management specifically warned against the common practice of pausing on the side of the highway, which often triggers secondary traffic jams.

"We urge road users not to stop on the road shoulder, as it can interfere with the smooth flow of traffic," he said.

Ardam further advised travelers to utilize the nearest available rest areas to recover from fatigue during their journey rather than stopping at the roadside. ***