Bakauheni-Merak Ferry Services Operating Normally Amid Anak Krakatau Alert Status
The Class IV Bakauheni Harbour Master and Port Authority Office (KSOP) in Lampung has confirmed that ferry operations on the Bakauheni-Merak route remain normal, safe, and smooth as of Monday (6/7). This assurance comes amid the increasing volcanic activity of Mount Anak Krakatau in the Sunda Strait, which has now been raised to Level III (Alert) status, indicating that eruptions are still possible.
“The Bakauheni-Merak crossing route is still running safely and smoothly. Ship operations are also normal, and ferry passengers need not worry,” said Suratno, Head of the Class IV Bakauheni KSOP. He added that the public is urged to follow official information from authorised bodies and the government. According to Suratno, 28 vessels are currently serving the crossing via seven active docks at Bakauheni Port.
The KSOP is continuously monitoring the volcanic activity of Anak Krakatau through its working area on Sebesi Island, relying on official data from the Centre for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG). Every development in the volcano’s activity serves as a basis for determining maritime safety measures in the Sunda Strait waters between Java and Sumatra.
Despite the smooth operations, the KSOP has announced an early warning for all maritime traffic in the Sunda Strait. Ship captains have been instructed to remain alert to potential subsequent eruptions, including volcanic material ejections, ash rain, and technical disruptions to navigation equipment. All vessels are strictly prohibited from approaching within a 5-kilometre radius of the active crater while the Level III alert status is in effect.
Captains are also required to monitor the latest information from PVMBG, the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), and other relevant agencies. If any indication potentially threatens shipping safety, captains must immediately perform avoidance manoeuvres and report to the Vessel Traffic Service (VTS), the Coastal Radio Station, or the nearest harbour master.
The KSOP has also requested that traditional fishing boats and tourist vessels operating in South Lampung, particularly around Sebesi and Sebuku Islands, increase their vigilance and avoid approaching the volcano. The government has urged the public and all maritime service users not to conduct activities within a 5-kilometre radius of the active crater until further notice.
As of Monday, Mount Anak Krakatau remains at Level III alert status. Based on PVMBG monitoring data from 00:00 to 06:00 WIB, the volcano experienced four Hybrid/Multi-phase earthquakes and one continuous tremor earthquake.