Only 29% of Travellers Return to Bali, ASDP Urges Planning Travel Times for Return Flow

Amid increasing mobility following Eid al-Fitr, the return flow on the Ketapang-Gilimanuk route is beginning to intensify, yet movements remain controlled. PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry (Persero) is urging holidaymakers to avoid travelling during the second peak return flow, expected on 28-29 March 2026. This measure aims to reduce potential congestion in the Ketapang-Gilimanuk port area. Vehicles returning from Java to Bali are increasing gradually, ensuring that ferry services continue to run smoothly without notable density. During the return period from 22-25 March 2026, 47,945 vehicles have returned to Bali, equivalent to 29% of the total vehicles that previously crossed to Java. Meanwhile, around 71% or 117,367 vehicles have yet to make the return journey. These figures confirm that the return flow is occurring gradually, providing space for the service system to operate optimally without excessive pressure. Deputy Director of PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry (Persero), Yossianis Marciano, stated that this situation is inseparable from the operational readiness strengthened since the beginning of the Eid transport period. The non-concentrated distribution of vehicles at one time is key to maintaining smoothness at the port. “We ensure that services on the Ketapang-Gilimanuk route remain optimal in anticipating the return flow. This gradual movement helps keep the operational rhythm stable,” Yossianis said in his statement on Thursday (26/3/2026). On the ground, the General Manager of ASDP Ketapang Branch, Arief Eko, explained that vehicle entry to the port is managed disciplinedly with support from buffer zones and strengthened traffic management. “All operational schemes are implemented adaptively, including buffer zone optimisation to keep vehicle flow moving without accumulation,” he clarified. This appeal aligns with the Directorate General of Sea Transportation under the Ministry of Transportation, which is also encouraging the public, particularly in East Java and surrounding areas, to wisely choose travel times. The Eid al-Fitr Ketupat tradition in the Tapal Kuda and Madura regions is expected to significantly boost mobility. Motorcycle Travellers Up 24% Performance at Ketapang also shows positive trends. Based on data from the Post on 25 March 2026 (H+3), 223 ship trips served the Java-Bali route. The number of passengers reached 44,898 people, up 6.6% compared to the same period last year. A significant increase is seen in two-wheeled vehicles, reaching 8,691 units or growing 24.1%. Logistics vehicles in the form of trucks also rose to 921 units or increased 18.7%. Meanwhile, four-wheeled vehicles were recorded at 4,644 units and buses at 302 units. In total, vehicles crossing reached 14,558 units, up 14% from the previous year. Cumulatively from H-10 to H+3, total passengers reached 375,617 people or up 0.8%, with total vehicles at 91,919 units or increasing 5.5%. This trend illustrates a dynamic yet controlled return flow through strengthened service capacity and cross-stakeholder coordination. Furthermore, ASDP reaffirms its commitment to maintaining service smoothness with a responsive operational approach. The public is urged to plan journeys carefully and follow officer instructions to ensure safe, comfortable, and incident-free travel to destinations.