Mudik by Wooden Boat to Bekasi: Just Rp 25,000, but a Gamble with Life

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com – The lower cost compared to land transportation is the reason why residents of North Jakarta choose to use wooden boats to return to their hometowns in Muara Gembong, Bekasi Regency, West Java.

Nevertheless, this mode of transport is considered to have higher risks than other means of conveyance.

If bringing a private car, the fuel cost alone is at least Rp 100,000, not including tolls.

In addition, land travel is deemed more tiring because it requires detours and potential entrapment in traffic jams.

The journey from Jakarta to Muara Gembong via land routes during the Eid season can take three to four hours.

Meanwhile, by boat from Cilincing, the trip only takes about one to 1.5 hours.

However, on the other hand, feelings of worry often haunt Wisnu when returning home by wooden boat amid bad weather.

“There is definitely fear, but the sea route is actually something we’re used to, because we’ve been fishermen from a young age, playing in the sea, riding the waves,” said Wisnu.

Another commuter from Bogor, Tya (27), also admitted to routinely using wooden boats as a mode of transport for Eid returns to Muara Gembong every year.

She chooses the traditional boat because of its affordable fare and relatively faster journey.

“On normal days, Rp 20,000, during Eid it rises by Rp 5,000, so one person can do it for Rp 25,000. Yes, the sea route is more affordable and effective than land,” said Tya.

She admitted to being willing to take a bus from Bogor to Cilincing to get a more comfortable journey and avoid traffic jams.

The same is done when returning to Jakarta, where she continues the journey by bus to Bogor.