Bus drivers transporting Eid travellers at Pulo Gebang confirmed to pass health screening
Jakarta’s Transport Department (Dishub DKI) has affirmed that drivers who fail health screening at the terminal will not be permitted to transport Eid holiday travellers this season.
“If health test results are unfavourable, whether due to high blood pressure or high blood sugar levels, drivers will not be authorised to proceed. One driver was found unfit yesterday and was immediately replaced,” stated Ujang Harmawan, Deputy Head of Jakarta’s Transport Department, at Pulo Gebang Integrated Terminal in East Jakarta on Tuesday.
This measure is being undertaken to ensure passenger safety during long-distance journeys to various regions.
Ujang confirmed that the medical examinations, conducted jointly with health personnel from Jakarta’s Health Department, are mandatory for all bus drivers transporting passengers. The screening includes physical health checks such as blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and other health conditions that may affect driver concentration and driving ability.
From the inspections conducted, one bus driver was found to fail the requirements and was not permitted to drive due to health concerns unsuitable for long-distance travel. To prevent accident risks from negligence or declining physical condition, the driver was immediately replaced by another driver.
Accommodation facilities are available in Building A at affordable rates. According to Ujang, these facilities are essential to allow drivers sufficient rest time before resuming their journey with passengers.
“In Building A, we have provided accommodation for passengers and drivers wishing to rest at approximately 15,000 rupiah per night,” said Ujang.
Ujang further explained that Pulo Gebang Integrated Terminal has divided its buildings by function to facilitate services to Eid holiday travellers. Building B is designated as the bus departure area, Building A for passenger and driver services including accommodation, whilst Building C serves as the bus arrival area and terminal management office.
Through health screening and rest facility provisions, Jakarta’s Transport Department hopes that holiday journeys can proceed safely, comfortably, and with minimal accident risk on the roads.
The Ministry of Manpower (Kemenaker) is also conducting driver readiness checks. “Health checks are being conducted here,” said Yassierli at Pulo Gebang Integrated Terminal on Monday 16 March.
During inspections, the ministry found a driver scheduled to operate a bus who had only rested approximately two hours and had high blood pressure. This condition was deemed unsuitable for long-distance driving.
“When we encounter drivers with insufficient rest, they must rest first or be replaced by a standby driver,” stated Yassierli.
From preliminary screening results, the Ministry of Manpower noted that most drivers were declared fit to drive. However, approximately one-third of drivers were recommended to rest further as they were not yet in optimal condition. Meanwhile, approximately 10 per cent of drivers were not recommended to drive and were replaced by standby drivers to maintain travel safety.