Return Flow: ASDP Records 49 Percent of Travellers Returning to Sumatra

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry (Persero) has recorded that, up to now, around 49 percent of holidaymakers have returned to Java, meaning pressure on the return flow is predicted to continue increasing, especially during the second peak return period on 28–29 March 2026.

ASDP’s President Director, Heru Widodo, stated that the Lebaran return flow from Sumatra to Java has entered a crucial phase.

After a temporary lull at the start of the period, movement is now strengthening again, with the potential for a significant surge in the coming days.

He said the return flow does not occur simultaneously but increases gradually.

After a flat period, movement is now strengthening again and is projected to peak soon.

“Therefore, we are ensuring that all operational readiness is at an optimal level, while also urging the public to avoid the peak period estimated for Saturday (28/3/2026) and Sunday (29/3/2026),” said Heru.

Meanwhile, the total number of vehicles that have returned is recorded at 118,297 units, or 49 percent of the total vehicles during the outbound journey of 239,920 units.

With around 51 percent of service users yet to return, the potential for a surge in the near term is the main concern.

To anticipate this, ASDP is strengthening adaptive operational patterns, including the implementation of the Tiba–Bongkar–Berangkat (TBB) scheme to accelerate vessel turnaround during high density.

In Merak, arrangements are being made through Rest Area KM 43, KM 68, and the Southern Ring Road (JLS).

Meanwhile, in Bakauheni, support points include Rest Area KM 49B, KM 20B, Gayam Terminal, and RM Gunung Jati, to ensure vehicle distribution remains controlled and does not pile up at the port.

ASDP Corporate Secretary, Windy Andale, added that tariff incentives are also being offered to encourage more even distribution of travel.