ASDP optimises Merak-Bakauheni ferry crossing, prioritises safety
PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry (Persero) is optimising services on the Merak-Bakauheni crossing while ensuring that the safety of shipping and service users remains the priority following the eruptive activity of Mount Anak Krakatau (GAK).
“We are optimising ferry services while ensuring that the safety and security of service users and shipping remain the priority, following the activity of Mount Anak Krakatau which has affected a number of transport services,” said ASDP President Director Heru Widodo, confirmed in Jakarta on Sunday.
He said that operational conditions on the Merak-Bakauheni crossing are currently running normally. Nevertheless, ASDP is taking anticipatory steps by strengthening monitoring of weather conditions and the marine environment, and ensuring the readiness of the fleet and personnel in the field.
“The safety of service users and shipping is our main priority, in the situation following the activity of Mount Anak Krakatau,” he said.
ASDP continues to monitor and coordinate with regulators and the Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) so that every operational decision can be made appropriately, taking into account the latest conditions in the field.
On Sunday (6/9), ferry operations on the Merak-Bakauheni route were still running normally. On the Merak side, 32 vessels were prepared to serve passengers, while from the Bakauheni side 28 vessels were in operation.
In terms of service output, the Merak branch recorded 32,280 passengers and 8,629 vehicles on Friday (4/9). Meanwhile on Saturday (5/9), 28,826 passengers and 8,075 vehicles were recorded.
In terms of vehicle movements, the volume on Saturday fell by around 6.42 percent compared with the previous day, indicating that ferry services continued to run well in line with operational conditions.
Meanwhile, the Bakauheni branch recorded 1,361 passengers and 7,371 vehicles on Friday (4/9), while on Saturday (5/9) 1,365 passengers and 6,736 vehicles were recorded.
As part of anticipatory measures in response to environmental conditions following the activity of Mount Anak Krakatau, on Sunday afternoon ASDP also distributed masks to the crew of KMP Jatra III and to passengers disembarking from and boarding the vessel.
Amid these conditions, ASDP has urged all service users to prepare their journeys well and to monitor official information regarding weather conditions and developments in volcanic activity before travelling.
In addition, passengers are expected to follow the instructions of officers in the field and not to force travel if there are changes in conditions that could affect safety.
He called on the public to prioritise safety together. Ensure that tickets and travel arrangements have been properly prepared, monitor official information before departure, and follow all provisions and instructions from officers while in the port area or on board the vessel.
“Amid the dynamic conditions, we will continue to be present to ensure that ferry services remain safe and provide comfort for all service users,” said Heru.