"In a bid to ensure smooth and safe return flow, the Ministry of Transportation has readied state-owned and private ships on the Panjang-Ciwandan route for April 12-18, 2024," Sumadi noted in his office's statement received in Jakarta on Saturday.
He remarked that Eid travelers can return home via the Panjang-Ciwandan sea route at 12 p.m., 2 p.m., and 4 p.m. local time using navigational state ship KN Edam as well as a patrol ship belonging to the ministry's Sea and Coast Guard Unit (KPLP), KN Trisula.
Meanwhile, the stationed private-owned ships are KMP Panorama Nusantara, KMP ALS Elvina, and KMP Amadea, he added.
Sumadi then underlined that the ships are dedicated to motorbikes and small-sized cars, noting that 10-wheeled trucks are not allowed to operate during the Eid return flow.
He said the optimization of the Panjang-Ciwandan route as an alternative to the Bakauheni-Merak route is not only aimed at easing traffic at Merak Port but also at enabling Bandar Lampung-bound travelers to have a longer resting time.
"We are making the most of the Panjang Port in Tanjung Karang, Lampung. Travelers heading to Bandar Lampung can cut the travel time by one hour via the port. This is very positive," he pointed out.
The minister then invited returning travelers to make the most of the conveniences offered while complying with applicable regulations.
"That way, travelers returning from Sumatra to Java will have smooth and safe trips," he remarked.
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Translator: Muhammad H, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
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