Gilimanuk Strait Traffic Congestion Intensifies as 32 Vessels Operate and Buffer Zone Activated

The route to Gilimanuk Port in Jembrana Regency, Bali, is showing a significant increase in activity as the peak Lebaran exodus period approaches. Authorities have implemented a high-capacity scheme by operating 32 ferry vessels across the Bali Strait.

During monitoring on Friday, 13 March 2026, afternoon, traffic congestion, particularly from logistics trucks, was evident as vehicles filled parking areas before entering the port. To alleviate congestion, especially for exodus travellers, police have activated buffer zone schemes and residential side roads leading to the port.

Jembrana Police Chief AKBP Kadek Citra Dewi Suparwati explained that the buffer zone at Gilimanuk Cargo Terminal is now operating at full capacity. This is intended to accommodate vehicle overflow during the exodus to prevent the main route from becoming blocked.

“Currently the afternoon conditions are already congested. PT ASDP has deployed 32 ferry vessels. Trucks are now filling the main Denpasar-Gilimanuk route,” Citra told detikBali.

Despite the deployment of dozens of vessels, the Arrive-Unload-Depart (AUD) scheme for accelerated cargo handling cannot be fully implemented due to similar congestion conditions at Ketapang Port in Banyuwangi on the opposite shore.

“We cannot implement AUD because Ketapang Port is also experiencing heavy activity,” Citra said.

To prevent prolonged congestion on the national highway, police have also redirected private vehicle traffic onto alternative routes through residential areas.

“Private vehicle traffic has already entered all three residential lanes leading to Gilimanuk Port,” she added.

This measure is intended to maintain traffic flow on the main route despite the continued increase in vehicle volume as Eid al-Fitr approaches. “We appeal to the public to remain patient and follow instructions from field officers for the sake of smooth traffic flow,” Citra concluded.