On April 18, 2025, a significant traffic jam occurred on the Ken-o Expressway, creating a 20-kilometer backup near the Hazama Parking Area (PA). According to NEXCO East Japan, the congestion was reported at 10:48 AM, with motorists facing delays of approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes when traveling from the Hachioji West Interchange (IC) to the Hazama-Nissho IC.
Just a day later, on April 19, another set of traffic troubles emerged on the Kan-etsu Expressway. An intermittent 24-kilometer traffic jam was reported, starting near the Miyoshi Parking Area/Smart Interchange (IC). This particular jam caused delays of 35 minutes for drivers traveling from Nerima IC to Kawagoe IC, while another 8-kilometer stretch near the Sakado-Nishi Smart IC added an additional 15 minutes to travel times from Kawagoe IC.
By 9:08 AM on April 19, the situation worsened, with the traffic jam on the Kan-etsu Expressway expanding to 29 kilometers. The travel time from Nerima IC to Sakado-Nishi Smart IC increased to 1 hour and 5 minutes. These traffic conditions highlight the ongoing challenges faced by commuters and travelers in the region, particularly during peak travel periods.
As travelers gear up for the Golden Week holidays, which typically see a spike in road traffic, authorities are urging motorists to plan their journeys carefully. The anticipated increase in traffic volume could exacerbate existing congestion issues, making it essential for drivers to stay informed about road conditions.
Local officials and traffic management agencies are continuously monitoring the situation, providing updates to help alleviate some of the frustration experienced by drivers. With the combination of holiday traffic and ongoing construction projects in the area, the potential for further delays remains a concern.
Motorists are advised to consider alternative routes where possible and to allow for extra travel time to reach their destinations. Authorities recommend checking real-time traffic updates through navigation apps or local news sources to stay informed about any changes in road conditions.
In addition to the traffic issues, the recent days have seen various reports of accidents and incidents on major highways. For instance, a multi-vehicle accident involving a large truck occurred on the Tohoku Expressway, leading to road closures and further complications for drivers in the area. As of April 19, the exact time for reopening the affected lanes remained uncertain, with reports indicating that numerous vehicle parts were scattered across the roadway.
Such incidents serve as a reminder of the importance of road safety, especially during times of heavy traffic. Authorities continue to emphasize safe driving practices, encouraging all motorists to remain vigilant and cautious while navigating busy highways.
As the situation develops, local news outlets will provide ongoing coverage and updates on traffic conditions across the region. Commuters are encouraged to stay tuned for the latest information to ensure safe and timely travel.
