JAMBI | INDATANEWS.COM - PT Hutama Karya (Persero) will soon begin charging toll fees for the Bayung Lencir–Simpang Ness section of the Betung–Tempino–Jambi Toll Road. The company previously operated the route free of charge to give the public an opportunity to become familiar with the new transportation link and experience its benefits firsthand.
Hutama Karya gradually opened the toll road to traffic. The Bayung Lencir–Tempino section began operations on October 17, 2024, while the Tempino–Simpang Ness section commenced operations on September 14, 2025.During the free-operation period, Hutama Karya evaluated and optimized its operational services while ensuring the readiness of various facilities. These measures formed part of the company's preparations for the subsequent transition to toll-based operations.
The Betung–Tempino–Jambi Toll Road, particularly the Bayung Lencir–Simpang Ness section, strengthens connectivity within the Trans-Sumatra Toll Road network, especially the connection between South Sumatra and Jambi provinces. The route also provides a more efficient travel alternative for the public while supporting smoother movement of goods and logistics between the two regions."The free-operation period gives the public an opportunity to become familiar with this toll road and experience its benefits firsthand. The route will soon enter the toll-operation phase. We are ensuring that all service aspects—from transactions at toll plazas and the readiness of service vehicles to traffic monitoring—are continuously optimized so that road users can travel safely, comfortably and smoothly," Iwan said.
To ensure smooth toll transactions, Hutama Karya has prepared three toll plazas: Pijoan Toll Plaza, Muaro Sebapo Toll Plaza and Bayung Lencir Toll Plaza. Each toll plaza is equipped with entry and exit lanes, reversible lanes and mobile reading devices to facilitate transactions for road users.Service preparations also include the deployment of emergency and operational vehicles. Hutama Karya has prepared a total of 22 vehicles with various functions to provide services and handle emergencies along the toll road.
The fleet consists of five patrol vehicles, one rescue vehicle, two ambulances, six tow trucks, three security and public-order vehicles, three traffic patrol vehicles, one skylift vehicle and one water tanker.In addition, Hutama Karya has installed 104 surveillance cameras, or CCTV units, along with six Variable Message Signs. These systems are intended to monitor road conditions and provide traffic information to road users.

Before the toll road opened, road users required approximately two hours to travel the route. Today, the journey can be completed in around 40 minutes. The time savings provide the public with a faster travel option while also supporting the transportation of goods and logistics.
"The reduction in travel time is expected to facilitate the mobility of people and goods and have a positive impact on economic activity between regions. Ahead of the toll implementation, we encourage the public to continue following official information published through Hutama Karya's communication channels," Iwan added.The time saved can also contribute to increased economic activity in areas connected by the toll road. Public mobility becomes more efficient, while the movement of goods between regions can be carried out more quickly.
Hutama Karya reminds the public to prepare for the upcoming toll implementation. Road users should ensure that their electronic toll cards are functioning properly and have sufficient balance before entering the toll road.Hutama Karya will also gradually conduct information campaigns for the public before toll-based operations begin on the Bayung Lencir–Simpang Ness section of the Betung–Tempino–Jambi Toll Road.
The company has not yet announced the toll rate or the exact date when toll collection will begin. Hutama Karya will release both details through its official communication channels once the toll rate and implementation date have been finalized.During their journey, road users can contact the Hutama Karya Toll Road call center at 150700 for assistance. The latest information on toll-road operations and services is also available through the official social media account @HutamaKaryaTollRoad.
Hutama Karya also provides the Mozy application, through which users can access various travel-related information on toll roads operated by the company. These information channels are intended to help road users better prepare for their journeys, particularly for the transition from free to toll-based operations.Through preparations involving toll plazas, service vehicles and monitoring systems, as well as public information measures, Hutama Karya continues to work toward ensuring the full operational readiness of the route. The Bayung Lencir–Simpang Ness section of the Betung–Tempino–Jambi Toll Road is expected to further improve connectivity between South Sumatra and Jambi while supporting public mobility and logistics activities in both regions. (IDNC)
REPORTER: Ahmad Zulfikar | EDITOR: Fik Sagala