“More than 70 percent of the deaths involved two-wheeled vehicles or motorcycles,” Sadikin said after inspecting Merak Port in Cilegon, Banten, on Monday, as authorities intensified monitoring of year-end travel flows.
Sadikin said a review of recent data revealed a worrying trend: while the overall number of traffic accidents declined, the number of fatalities rose, pointing to more severe crashes and higher risks for vulnerable road users.
Accidents fell from about 3,000 cases at the end of 2023 to around 2,700 last year, he said. However, the death toll increased from roughly 400 to 485 over the same period.
Beyond vehicle type, Sadikin highlighted that most fatal crashes occurred on arterial and local roads rather than highways, where speeds are regulated and safety infrastructure is generally better.
“More than 95 percent of these accidents did not occur on toll roads,” he said, adding that non-toll routes often involve mixed traffic, poor lighting, and limited enforcement.
He urged motorcyclists traveling during the holidays to be extra cautious, ensure they are physically fit, wear certified helmets, and avoid carrying excessive loads that can affect vehicle stability.
Sadikin also warned riders against long, uninterrupted journeys, stressing that fatigue remains a major contributor to serious accidents during peak travel periods.
Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo said his ministry had deployed 590 rest and service posts nationwide to support safer travel during the year-end holidays.
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He encouraged motorcyclists to stop and rest whenever they feel tired, saying safety should take precedence over speed or travel targets.
“We want people to depart safely and return home in good health to welcome the New Year 2026,” Hanggodo said.
Earlier, Transportation Minister Dudy Purwagandhi urged the public to use the government’s free year-end homecoming program to reduce accident risks.
The program aims to shift travelers away from private vehicles, especially motorcycles, toward public transport, easing congestion and improving overall road safety during the holiday season.
Related news: Traffic enforcement campaign lowers accident, injury rates: Police
Translator: Desi, Kenzu
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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