Severe traffic congestion paralyzed the surrounding areas of the Gelora Bung Karno (GBK) stadium in Jakarta Pusat on Saturday afternoon, creating gridlock ahead of the high-profile football match between Persija Jakarta and Persib Bandung, according to local traffic reports.
The heavy congestion began building well before kickoff, with traffic snarls stretching back toward the Mapolda Metro Jaya area by 15.05 local time. Thousands of Persija supporters, widely known as the Jakmania, converged on the sports complex in bus convoys, many wearing the club’s signature orange colors. As vehicles ground to a halt near the venue, local traffic authorities implemented emergency diversions, forcing vehicles heading toward Slipi to use the busway lanes to keep traffic moving. Numerous fans aboard the buses elected to disembark early, walking the final stretch to the stadium gates.
Security Measures and Traffic Diversions
Ahead of the fixture, the Metro Jaya Regional Police deployed heavy security and established comprehensive traffic rerouting around the stadium precinct. Public safety officials urged attendees to refrain from bringing prohibited items into the venue, including pyrotechnics, sharp objects, firearms, alcoholic beverages, and glass bottles. In a public statement issued Friday, Metro Jaya Police Public Relations Head Commissioner Budi Hermanto apologized to Jakarta residents for the inevitable travel disruptions caused by the matchday traffic plan. According to police representatives, the diversions were designed to balance public mobility with large-scale sporting event logistics, prioritizing overall community safety and sportsmanship.
Broader Context and Official Warnings
Erick Thohir issued strict warnings regarding safety, conduct, and stadium regulations ahead of the fixture. Security coordination extended beyond the capital; the Bekasi City Police actively escorted regional supporter groups into the GBK complex, emphasizing the need for orderly behavior and peaceful conduct throughout the event.
Matchday Impact
The mandatory club-jersey initiative implemented for attendees provided a welcome economic boost for local vendors operating around the GBK complex, who reported a sharp increase in merchandise sales as thousands of supporters filled the concourses. Meanwhile, regional police and sports authorities continued monitoring crowd movements and traffic flows as fans departed the venue following the final whistle.
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