Analysis of Pavement Damage on Jakarta–Merak Toll Road Using PCI Approach

The Jakarta–Merak Toll Road serves as a vital transportation corridor connecting Java to Sumatra, and is heavily utilized by freight vehicles, particularly those operating in industrial areas along its path. This study aimed to assess the current condition of road pavements along both directions between Km 31.600 and Km 97.700 using the Pavement Condition Index (PCI) method. The novelty of this research lies in the comprehensive and systematic application of PCI to real-world toll road conditions, offering objective field-based data to guide infrastructure maintenance decisions. Field surveys were conducted to identify and classify visible surface distresses such as potholes, cracks, and other forms of deterioration. A total of 118 instances of damage were recorded in lane A (Jakarta to Merak) and 108 in lane B (Merak to Jakarta). The severity and density of these distresses were quantified by PCI calculations. The results showed that lane A had an average PCI score of 61%, categorized as “good,” while lane B scored 54%, categorized as “moderate.” This variation suggests uneven pavement degradation, potentially owing to the asymmetric traffic volume and vehicle loading patterns. This study confirms that the PCI method provides a reliable framework for evaluating the surface conditions of toll roads. The derived PCI values serve as a practical reference for prioritizing maintenance efforts, planning rehabilitation schedules, and ensuring the longevity of the pavement infrastructure. These findings emphasize the importance of condition-based assessment tools for optimizing road asset management strategies and ensuring user safety and satisfaction with national toll road networks.