"Overall, based on my monitoring of what is displayed on the monitor screen, everything is going well. I think it has yet to reach the peak of the dynamics now, but everything has been well prepared," Effendy stated on Friday.
The number of vehicles heading to Puncak had increased by around 25 percent as compared to the same time last year, he remarked.
The minister noted that some of them were keen to head to tourist destinations, but a large segment of them wanted to stay for a while in hotels or inns in Puncak. The minister expected that everything would go accordingly.
He advised people looking to travel to check their vehicles first, including buses, to make sure they are roadworthy.
"Those who have private cars, thoroughly check (it). If it is really not feasible, do not force it. Remember that safety is more important than enjoying the New Year festivities," Effendy added.
Minister Sumadi stated that security measures by the Police for the route ahead of the New Year had improved as compared to last year.
"I saw that Bogor was very neat. In fact, on every kilo, there were personnel who can control at any time. This is an improvement from last year when I came here," he recalled.
He also urged personnel to exercise caution while handling return trips that are expected to take place after the 2023 New Year's Eve.
"The return flow, usually after the 1st and 2nd, it is usually quicker to go home. Please inform (people) that right now, the weather is extreme even in Puncak, so (it is better) if you can pay attention to what the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysical Agency recommends," Sumadi advised.
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Translator: M Fikri S, Mecca Yumna
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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