"This year's homecoming flow is relatively smooth. We lauded the hard work of the Police Chief and his officials who have anticipated and guided travelers properly," PBNU Secretary General Saifullah Yusuf stated, as per the statement here on Sunday.
Yusuf pointed out that the police have anticipated traffic congestion by arranging contra-flow in toll roads and informing the public about alternative routes to relieve traffic jams at main exodus routes.
"Residents have been well-informed, and they understand when they must travel and depart," he stated.
The secretary general said with the police performance in handling the homecoming flow, he is optimistic the return flow will be smooth as well.
Meanwhile, Yusuf urged travelers to be aware of travel planning by seeking the latest information from the police to avoid traffic congestion.
"Now, we will see how residents develop their awareness to plan their travel, particularly during their return trip. Seek information from official resources, including the police, to decide the best time to depart," he emphasised.
The Islamic organisation's secretary general also said that the number of travellers on this year's Eid exodus is surging significantly, as they are no longer being restricted by COVID-19 travel restrictions.
Earlier, the Transportation Ministry estimated that at least 123.8 million residents would return to their hometowns during this year's Eid exodus, an increase from 85 million in 2022.
Of the total projected travellers this year, 99.22 million are expected to travel by land, including 27.32 million residents by private car and 22.77 million by bus.
"Despite (this year's Eid exodus) recording the largest number of travellers, the traffic congestion is not too bad. There are indeed jams at several places, but those have been promptly relieved by the quick action of police officers and other stakeholders," Yusuf remarked.
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Translator: Putu Indah S, Nabil Ihsan
Editor: Sri Haryati
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