Bus Drivers in Bogor Prepare for Mudik Season, Ensuring Operations Without Doping

Bogor — Bus drivers at Terminal Baranangsiang in Bogor have outlined their readiness to handle the mudik (homecoming) traffic surge.

Pendi, aged 39, an inter-city, inter-provincial (AKAP) bus driver on the Jabodetabek-West Sumatra route, has made all necessary preparations to ensure the safety of himself and his passengers.

Beyond maintaining bus cleanliness, he also prioritises passenger security. “Primarily, the brakes must be checked constantly. Brakes, tyres, air pressure and pressure levels,” said Pendi at Terminal Baranangsiang Bogor on Tuesday, 10 March 2026.

The driver, with 10 years of experience, noted that the journey from Terminal Baranangsiang Bogor to Padang takes 35 to 38 hours, depending on traffic conditions. He and his passengers must visit Merak Port, cross the Sunda Strait, and arrive at Bakauheni Port.

“Yes, to Padang. Padang will be divided later; some go to Bukittinggi, others to Pariaman,” he explained.

Aware of the challenging terrain and lengthy travel duration, Pendi is accustomed to alternating drivers to ensure adequate rest. He also carries a first aid kit on his bus.

“At one rest stop, we change drivers. Each rest stop is around eight hours, so we can get eight hours of rest,” he said.

He only carries personal medication to relieve headaches or fever whilst driving. Kusnadi ensures he does not use stimulants or consume alcohol to maintain his stamina whilst operating on that AKDP route.

“As for stimulants, absolutely not. Especially alcohol, because we are responsible for passengers’ lives,” Kusnadi told Kompas.com.