BALINEWSID.COM, BANYUASIN – Traffic congestion along the Eastern Highway connecting Pangkalan Balai and Betung in Banyuasin Regency has begun to impact vehicles exiting the functional Palembang–Betung Toll Road.

The traffic slowdown occurred on Friday, March 13, 2026, after a vehicle experienced mechanical trouble on the national road. The incident caused significant disruption to the traffic flow, resulting in long queues of vehicles stretching along the route.

The congestion coincided with the early phase of the 2026 Eid al-Fitr homecoming travel period, when traffic volume has started to increase. As a result, the buildup of vehicles became more pronounced as motorists headed toward various destinations.

The situation also affected vehicles exiting the functional Palembang–Betung Toll Road. Traffic at the toll exit slowed considerably as vehicles merged into the congested Eastern Highway, which serves as the continuation of the travel route for many drivers.

Consequently, several motorists were forced to move slowly and experienced longer travel times due to the bottleneck.

The incident highlights how a disturbance at a single point on a major roadway can create a chain reaction affecting surrounding traffic movement, including access points to and from functional toll roads.

Road users are advised to remain cautious, monitor traffic conditions, and adjust their travel plans to avoid getting caught in longer queues during the ongoing holiday travel period.