Indonesias Eid rush: Gilimanuk bottleneck turns fatal amid mass exodus
According to Deddy Herlambang from Inisiatif Strategis Transportasi, warnings about the potential surge in traffic had been issued well in advance.
According to Deddy Herlambang from Inisiatif Strategis Transportasi, warnings about the potential surge in traffic had been issued well in advance.
As Eid al-Fitr approaches, Jakartas malls are experiencing a massive influx of visitors driven by holiday bonuses and the cultural urge for festive renewal. Malls serve as popular destinations for family entertainment before iftar.
For a segment of the working class in Yogyakarta, returning to their hometowns is no longer a realistic dream. Skyrocketing transportation costs is forcing many to swallow their homesickness.
TheIndonesia.co - Home Affairs Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian has called on regional governments to take anticipatory measures in preparation for the annual surge in homebound travellers ahead of this year’s Eid al-Fitr celebrations.
Recognizing the complexities and challenges each region faces, he emphasized the need for tailored strategies to handle the flow of travelers.
“The challenges to mobility, whether by land, sea, or air, vary from one region to another,” said Karnavian in a statement released on Monday, according to Antara News Agency.
He outlined the specific concerns for each area, stressing that regions like Java, Sumatra, Bali, and Sulawesi will need to prioritize managing the land routes effectively. Similarly, regions relying on sea and air transportation must also take appropriate actions to ensure smooth travel.
To facilitate seamless homecoming journeys, the minister urged regional governments to focus on infrastructure readiness and avoid significant hikes in ticket prices for transportation modes such as airplanes. This ensures that travel remains accessible and affordable for the people.
Karnavian further emphasized his support for this initiative through Circular Letter Number 400.6.1/749/SJ, which details the steps regional governments must take to ensure the preparedness of transportation systems, infrastructure, and public order.
The letter encourages local leaders to mitigate disaster risks, check the condition of transportation infrastructure, and address any issues that may arise ahead of the high-demand period.
Moreover, the minister called on regional governments to prioritize security aspects in their transportation management plans. For regions with pioneer airports, he urged local authorities to ensure these airports are fully prepared to handle the anticipated demand. In addition, many regions have begun offering flight subsidies to ease the financial burden on travelers, another step in ensuring the success of this year’s Eid homecoming.
Through these coordinated efforts, Minister Karnavian aims to guarantee a smooth and efficient flow of homebound travelers, ensuring that the joy of Eid is celebrated with ease and safety across Indonesia.