He said the first step involves educating stakeholders about Over Dimension and Over-Load (ODOL) and securing their commitment to avoid using oversized and overloaded vehicles.
The ministry is also identifying such vehicles and enforcing regulations against those violating ODOL policies.
In a statement received on Friday, Purwagandhi noted that ODOL rules have existed for 16 years, specifically under Law Number 22 of 2009 on Traffic and Vehicles, but their enforcement has been less than ideal. The National Police and state tollway company Jasa Marga are assisting the ministry in implementing these three measures to improve truck safety.
“The education period, which lasts for a month, has been ongoing since early June 2025. During this phase, we are not enforcing the rules. Once it ends, we will conduct an evaluation. So far, the Police and Jasa Marga have supported our efforts,” the minister explained.
The Transportation Ministry will also provide training and educate drivers on technical aspects, including the dos and don’ts of highway travel, similar to the training given to pilots or train operators.
Purwagandhi said the zero ODOL policy was initiated in 2017 but has faced challenges, with drivers and logistics companies calling for a more lenient approach.
He acknowledged that enforcement has not been optimal, citing setbacks in 2023 despite stakeholders agreeing to comply.
This delayed enforcement has endangered the public, as shown by the number of lives lost each year in traffic accidents involving ODOL vehicles, he said. According to National Police records, there were at least 27,337 traffic accidents involving cargo vehicles in 2024.
Jasa Marga data also indicates that ODOL vehicles are the second-biggest cause of traffic accidents. In 2024, 6,390 people died in accidents involving oversized and overloaded vehicles, with their families receiving aid.
Such vehicles not only injure people but also cause traffic congestion, damage roads, and contribute to air pollution. Every year, it costs around Rp43.47 trillion (US$2.7 billion) to repair roads damaged by factors such as ODOL vehicles, he highlighted.
He emphasized that no new regulation will be issued to address this issue; instead, the government will enforce existing laws.
The minister also said he is open to hearing suggestions and opinions about the policy.
However, he stressed that he would not delay its implementation any longer, warning that further postponement would only increase the risk to public safety.
“I need to stress once more that our main focus is on safety,” Purwagandhi added.
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Translator: Muhammad Harianto, Mecca Yumna Ning Prisie
Editor: M Razi Rahman
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