Despite Scenic Views, Drivers Are Prohibited from Stopping on the Shoulder of Kelok 23 Road in Yogyakarta

YOGYAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - Police have warned road users not to stop on the shoulder of Kelok 23 on the Bantul-Gunungkidul border in the Special Region of Yogyakarta.

The Head of Safety and Security Subdivision (Kamsel) of the Traffic Directorate of DIY Regional Police, AKBP Widya Mustikaningrum, said the traffic reopening trial runs from 14 to 20 September 2026. Signs are already in place, and compliance is expected.

"Drivers are prohibited from stopping, especially parking. Selling activities along the national and provincial roads are also forbidden," Widya said, speaking in Bantul on Monday (14/9/2026).

To enjoy the natural beauty of the Kelok 23 area, several rest areas are available. Currently, they are located on the Gunungkidul-Bantul border. Besides existing buildings, there are open spaces where visitors can directly admire the beauty of Parangtritis Beach to the west.

Kompas.com observed that on the first day of the trial, some drivers recklessly stopped on the shoulder to take pictures.

She added that police have set up two posts: one at the entrance point and another planned to be added at one of the rest areas in Kelok 23.

KOMPAS.COM/MARKUS YUWONO Several vehicles pass near the Kelok 23 rest area, connecting Bantul and Gunungkidul, Monday (14/9/2026)

"These posts serve as coordination points to monitor and supervise security, safety, orderliness, and smooth traffic flow," she explained.

The police also coordinate with relevant parties such as Bantul Public Order Agency (Satpol-PP) and DIY authorities to help enforce these regulations.

"If even one or two stop, we will immediately advise and clear them," she said.

Widya noted that police will patrol during the trial and conduct evaluations afterward. In addition, together with the DIY National Road Implementation Unit (Satker PJN) and BPTD, they will continue to mitigate and document street lighting.

"Road users passing through Kelok 23 should prioritize safety over speed, especially since the road has 23 sharp bends," she stressed.

The Head of the DIY National Road Implementation Unit, Tisara Sita, said the construction of the Kelok 23 road was completed last August. Residents are allowed to travel there from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

"It is only open to two-wheeled and passenger cars. Heavy vehicles are not yet permitted to pass," Tisara said.

The restriction is due to ongoing follow-up work to create gentler road slopes, since large vehicles currently have difficulty maneuvering. This extension work is underway and is expected to be completed by August 2027.