Banyumas Regency to deploy five free Lebaran homecoming buses for 2026

Purwokerto, Central Java – The Banyumas Regency Government is preparing five buses for the Lebaran 2026 free homecoming bus programme to help residents working away return to their hometowns safely and comfortably.

‘What is certain from the regional government is five vehicles. For additions from other agencies, we are still coordinating,’ said Omar Udaya, head of the Banyumas Regency Department of Transportation, in Purwokerto, Banyumas, Central Java, on Wednesday.

He said the free mudik programme follows the policy of the Central Java Provincial Government, and departures are scheduled for 16 March 2026 from Museum Purna Bakti Pertiwi, Taman Mini Indonesia Indah, Jakarta.

He added that the registration mechanism and practical implementation will be coordinated by the provincial government, while the regency government will prepare the fleet and operational support in the destination areas.

He hoped the programme would ease transport costs for Banyumas residents who work in Jakarta and its surroundings, and also help reduce congestion of private vehicles, particularly motorcycles, during the Lebaran mudik 2026.

Meanwhile, Dinhub Banyumas has prepared several anticipatory steps to support the smooth flow of mudik and balik traffic for Lebaran 2026, including alternative routes.

‘Nationally we have joined the briefing on mudik preparations, and at the regency level we will hold a further meeting soon,’ Omar said.

Mufti Hakim, head of Transportation and Safety at Dinhub Banyumas, said the Department of Transportation has mapped alternative routes that travelers can use if there is congestion on the main routes.

In addition, they have prepared traffic engineering at potential chokepoints.

He said several areas likely to experience congestion during the mudik and balik periods include the Patikraja and Rawalo districts.

‘We have prepared alternative routes and preventive measures if congestion occurs, including using small roads that are still passable by vehicles,’ he said.