Surabaya

Road Infrastructure in Surabaya, Indonesia

Types of Roads

• National Roads: Major routes connecting Surabaya to other cities and regions.
• Provincial Roads: Connect local areas within East Java.
• City Roads: Smaller roads within Surabaya, including residential and commercial streets.
• Expressways: Limited-access roads designed for high-speed travel, such as the Surabaya-Gempol Toll Road.

Traffic Conditions

• Congestion: Surabaya experiences heavy traffic, especially during peak hours (morning and evening).
• Road Quality: Varies; main roads are generally well-maintained, while some smaller roads may have potholes or poor conditions.
• Traffic Management: Traffic lights and police officers manage intersections, but congestion can still be significant.

Public Transportation Integration

• Buses: The city has a bus rapid transit system called "Suroboyo Bus," which is affordable and connects key areas.
• Angkot: Minibus services that operate on fixed routes, providing flexible transportation options.
• Ride-Hailing Services: Widely used, with apps like Gojek and Grab available for convenient travel.

Toll Roads

• Surabaya-Gempol Toll Road: Major toll road facilitating quick access to surrounding areas.
• Toll Fees: Vary based on vehicle type and distance traveled; typically ranges from IDR 10,000 to IDR 50,000.

Costs Associated with Road Use

• Fuel Prices: Relatively low compared to many countries; as of 2023, around IDR 10,000 per liter for gasoline.
• Parking Fees: Vary by location; public parking can range from IDR 2,000 to IDR 5,000 per hour.

Procedures for Driving or Commuting

• Driver’s License: An Indonesian driver's license is required; international licenses may be accepted temporarily.
• Vehicle Registration: Must be registered with local authorities; ensure compliance with local regulations.
• Traffic Rules: Follow local traffic laws, including speed limits and seatbelt use.

Local Considerations

• Cultural Norms: Be patient in traffic; honking is common but should be used sparingly.
• Safety Tips: Avoid driving at night in unfamiliar areas; keep doors locked and windows up.
• Common Challenges: Navigating through heavy traffic, understanding local driving customs, and finding parking can be difficult.

Summary

Surabaya's road infrastructure includes a mix of national, provincial, and city roads, with significant traffic congestion. Public transportation options like buses and angkots are integrated into the system, while toll roads facilitate faster travel. Costs for fuel and parking are reasonable, but driving requires adherence to local regulations and cultural norms. Be prepared for common challenges such as heavy traffic and parking difficulties.