Manado-Bitung Toll Road Faces Financial Challenges

High Tariffs Lead to Low Usage and Significant Losses

The Manado-Bitung toll road is facing substantial financial losses due to its high toll tariffs, resulting in low usage rates. According to Yasti Soepredjo Mokoagow, a member of Commission V of the DPR RI, the government is burdened with losses exceeding Rp 300 billion annually. The high tariffs affect not only private vehicles but also trucks, causing them to opt for national roads instead.

Financial Implications of Low Usage

The low usage of the toll road has significant financial implications. The government not only faces losses from the toll road's operation but also bears the cost of preserving national roads used as alternatives. Yasti noted that the combined losses and preservation costs for the Manado-Bitung road exceed Rp 400 billion.

Proposed Solution: Discounted Toll Rates

To address this issue, Yasti has suggested that the Ministry of Public Works consider implementing discounted toll rates as a transitional measure to encourage the public to use the toll road. This proposal aims to reduce the financial burden on the government while making the toll road more attractive to users. The discount is expected to help minimize losses and promote the use of the toll road, ultimately benefiting both the government and road users.