Travelers attempting to cross from Bali to Java faced significant delays at Gilimanuk Port in Melaya District, Jembrana Regency, on Monday afternoon, March 16. The sprawling queue of vehicles stretched an astonishing 19 kilometers, creating immense congestion for those hoping to make the inter-island journey.
Addressing the escalating situation, Minister of Transportation Dudy Purwagandhi announced immediate measures to mitigate the severe backlog. The ministry plans to deploy additional ferry services to help clear the extensive queues and ensure a smoother flow of traffic.
“At Gilimanuk, we are certainly establishing a buffer zone. We are increasing the number of active vessels and implementing a system to separate larger vehicles, diverting them into this designated buffer zone. This strategy will allow smaller vehicles and buses to proceed with priority,” stated Minister Purwagandhi during the launch event for the three-million-home program in Jalan Manggarai, Jakarta.
Furthermore, Minister Purwagandhi emphasized the ministry’s commitment to prioritizing two-wheeled vehicles during the crossing process, recognizing their unique travel requirements.
“We are facilitating their entry. Therefore, our comprehensive plan includes the deployment of additional ships, the creation of a dedicated buffer zone, and the prioritization of two-wheeled vehicles, alongside small vehicles and buses,” he concluded, outlining the multifaceted approach to address the Gilimanuk Port congestion.
Reporter: Najma R
Summary
Travelers attempting to cross from Bali to Java faced significant delays at Gilimanuk Port on Monday afternoon, March 16, with queues stretching 19 kilometers. This extensive congestion severely impacted those hoping to make the inter-island journey.
Minister of Transportation Dudy Purwagandhi announced immediate measures to address the backlog, including deploying additional ferry services and establishing a buffer zone. The comprehensive plan prioritizes smaller vehicles, buses, and two-wheeled vehicles by diverting larger vehicles to the designated buffer area.