"We cannot overlook the current situations in the context of the Eid homecoming exodus (mudik) peak, so as to anticipate it properly," Tanjung stated.
The minister remarked that in the face of this year's mudik flow, it is necessary to oversee the movements of travelers and vehicles that are expected to experience an increase, starting from Wednesday (Apr 19), or D-3, to Thursday (Apr 20), or D-2.
He highlighted the importance of ensuring sound coordination and communication between all stakeholders, particularly related to ensuring the availability of fuel oil (BBM) supply.
According to Tanjung, coordination is of essence in ensuring security, comfort, and safety of travelers, who will reach their destinations via the port.
Furthermore, Tanjung prompted state-owned energy enterprise Pertamina to ensure ample fuel supply to meet the needs of travelers.
He appealed to Pertamina to add more facilities, including a delivery facility or mobile fuel suppliers to address emergency situations, such as those that might occur during long traffic jams.
He hoped that the available fuel supply would be sufficient to meet the travelers' need, so that this year's mudik flow will run smoothly.
"It is necessary to provide more facilities to improve our service," he noted.
Based on data from Merak Post during a 24-hour period of April 17-18, as many as 43 ships have been in operation.
However, the total number of passengers recorded had only reached 82,448, a decline of 13 percent as compared to 94,561 people during the corresponding period last year.
On the contrary, on D-5, Bakauheni Post recorded a total of 46,396 passengers, or a 15-percent increase, as compared to only 40,449 people registered during the same period in the previous year.
Related news: Minister visits Pasar Senen station to observe Eid exodus preparations
Related news: KPAI asks parents to monitor children during exodus
Translator: Adimas Raditya Fahky, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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