Beware of Traffic Jams: Return Flow from Java to Bali Predicted to Peak on 28–29 March

JAKARTA – PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry is reminding holidaymakers to be wary of the peak return crossing traffic on the Ketapang Port–Gilimanuk Port route, predicted to occur on 28–29 March 2026. This period has the potential to trigger a surge in vehicles and congestion if not properly anticipated by ferry users. So far, the return flow from Java to Bali is proceeding gradually. During the period of 22–25 March 2026, a total of 47,945 vehicles were recorded returning to Bali, or about 29 percent of the total vehicles that previously crossed to Java. This situation is actually a positive factor because the vehicle distribution is not piling up at one time. With the spread-out movement, ferry services on the Ketapang–Gilimanuk route continue to run smoothly without excessive pressure. Deputy Director of PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry, Yossianis Marciano, emphasised that this smoothness is the result of operational readiness from the start of the Lebaran transport period. General Manager of ASDP Ketapang Branch, Arief Eko, also stated that a buffer zone system and traffic management are being implemented to keep vehicle flow steady. “All operational schemes are being run adaptively, including optimisation of the buffer zone so that vehicle flow remains steady without build-up,” said Arief. A significant surge occurred in two-wheeled vehicles, reaching 8,691 units or up 24.1 percent, as well as logistics vehicles in the form of trucks numbering 921 units or an increase of 18.7 percent. Meanwhile, four-wheeled vehicles were recorded at 4,644 units and buses at 302 units, bringing the total vehicles crossing to 14,558 units or up 14 percent compared to the previous year. Although the current conditions are relatively under control, the potential surge on 28–29 March still needs to be anticipated. Therefore, the public is urged to plan their journeys carefully. This includes avoiding peak times and following the directions of officials to ensure the journey remains safe, comfortable, and smooth to the destination.