ASDP strengthens service readiness ahead of peak exodus on 18-19 March
Jakarta — PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry (Persero) is bolstering the readiness of its Java-Sumatra ferry crossing services to handle the anticipated peak period of Eid homecoming traffic expected on 18-19 March 2026, ensuring smooth and safe travel for the public.
ASDP Chief Executive Heru Widodo stated that the surge in homebound traffic ahead of Eid is a trend that occurs every year, with the peak exodus predicted for Wednesday, 18 March and Thursday, 19 March.
“For that reason, we have already implemented a series of preparations and contingency measures in terms of operations and coordination with stakeholders to deliver optimal ferry services for users,” Heru said in a statement in Jakarta on Monday.
He noted that to handle the spike during this year’s homecoming period, ASDP has implemented a delaying system policy at several buffer zone points, including the Rest Area at KM43, KM68, JLS buffer zone in Merak and Rest Area at KM87B.
Additionally, vehicle diversions through alternative ports continue to be carried out even as port conditions remain manageable.
“Although conditions at Merak Port are relatively quiet, logistics vehicles in categories 7, 8 and 9 heading to Sumatra will still transit through the BBJ Bojonegara Port. We must remain consistent with the agreements already made,” he stated.
ASDP, together with stakeholders, is also ensuring staff readiness with 1,185 personnel at Merak and 741 personnel at Bakauheni, stationed at buffer zones, highways and port areas to optimise the smooth flow of homebound traffic.
To achieve smoother operations, ASDP has urged the public to purchase tickets exclusively through the official Ferizy channel, which has been available for booking since 60 days before departure.
“Service users are urged to obtain tickets before arriving at the port and to avoid purchases through informal agents to prevent losses for each user,” Heru stated.
ASDP has recorded increased ferry crossing activity from Java to Sumatra. Despite rising traffic volumes, the ferry service continues to operate in an orderly and efficient manner.
For total vehicles that have crossed, 72,629 units were recorded, a 6.9 per cent increase compared to the same period last year’s actual figure of 67,593 units.
Meanwhile, total passengers crossing from Sumatra to Java (Bakauheni Port, Wika Beton and BBJ Muara Pilu) from 10 days before Eid to 5 days before Eid recorded 191,988 people, a 0.7 per cent increase compared to the same period last year’s actual figure of 190,711 people.
For total vehicles that have crossed, 40,236 units were recorded, a 2.3 per cent increase compared to the same period last year’s actual figure of 39,327 units.