Abstract
This study investigates the economic and social effects of toll-road development on rice-farming households in Terisi District, Indramayu Regency, Indonesia, using qualitative case research and thematic analysis. Data was gathered through purposive sampling and semi-structured interviews with rice farmers from Indonesia’s largest rice-growing area. The findings indicate that economic difficulties were the primary concern, representing 39% of responses, and the negative impacts far overshadowed any positive effects, as shown by a 14.7:1 negative to positive ratio. Key challenges included a decline in income, with 12 farmers highlighting reduced earnings, loss of cultivated land (10 responses), and forced land sales (7 responses). Infrastructure and government support issues followed, making up 29.2% of concerns, especially regarding the need for improved irrigation, better drainage, and financial assistance. Despite adverse impacts, 19 farmers continued in agriculture, showing resilience, while 13 diversified into non-farm activities to adapt. Social networks within communities remained largely stable, with 15 farmers reporting no significant changes in relationships. The research suggests that effective mitigation should prioritize fair land-based settlements, targeted livelihood restoration projects, and locally tailored agricultural and social support to help rice-farming communities navigate economic and land-use transitions due to major infrastructure projects.