Ketapang-Gilimanuk crossing returns to normal as queues diminish

Banyuwangi (ANTARA) - Vehicle movement at the Ketapang (Banyuwangi)-Gilimanuk (Bali) crossing has begun to flow smoothly, and queues for logistics transport vehicles are steadily diminishing, with only about 500 metres observed on Friday.

Heru Widodo, President Director of PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry (Persero), stated in a briefing received in Banyuwangi on Friday that operational reinforcements are being continuously implemented by adjusting to field conditions, ensuring that service capacity is utilised optimally.

“We continue to monitor the development of vehicle and passenger flows periodically, while simultaneously adjusting ship operational patterns to actual field conditions. Thankfully, the increasingly controlled queues are part of the service recovery process that we continue to push,” he said.

He noted that operational data for service users at Ketapang Port continues to show high levels of activity. On Wednesday (30/9), passenger numbers were recorded at 19,101 with 5,881 vehicles, representing a 4.57 per cent increase compared to the previous day, while on Thursday (1/10), passenger numbers reached 19,942 with 5,745 vehicles.

According to Heru, ASDP continues to adjust service capacity on the Ketapang-Gilimanuk route to ensure that the flow of passengers and vehicles is served optimally.

“Currently, 27 ships are being operated across several piers at Ketapang Port, consisting of five ships at Pier MB I, five ships at Pier MB III, 12 ships at Pier LCM, and five ships at Pier MB IV,” he said.

Media Syahrianto, General Manager of ASDP Ketapang Branch, added that service smoothness depends not only on the number of operating ships but also on the regulation of vehicle distribution, the utilisation of pier facilities, and coordination with all stakeholders in the field.

“We understand that smooth crossings are a vital necessity for both the public and logistics distribution; therefore, we respond to every development in the field with dynamic operational management,” he said.

He stated that ASDP also continues to monitor queue conditions on both sides of the port (Ketapang and Gilimanuk) as well as ship movements periodically.

“Operational arrangements will continue to be adjusted based on vehicle traffic conditions, pier capacity, fleet readiness, and maritime safety aspects,” said Media.