Sadai Port Temporarily Closed, South Bangka Government Requests Ferry Services Be Redirected
The Government of South Bangka Regency, Bangka Belitung Islands Province, has requested that all ship operators immediately redirect ferry services following the temporary closure of Sadai Ferry Port. The closure is necessary to carry out repairs on the port’s movable bridge, which is currently in an unsafe condition.
Kepala Dinas Perhubungan Kabupaten Bangka Selatan, Benny Supratama, stated that the operational diversion is a temporary solution to ensure maritime connectivity between Bangka and Belitung Islands is not completely disrupted during the construction period. “While waiting for the repair process, we urge ship owners or operators to transfer services to Pangkalbalam Port or other locations if later permitted at Sadai Public Port,” Benny said on Thursday, June 25.
He emphasised that the condition of the movable bridge at Sadai Port is no longer fit for use, and forcing operations would compromise shipping safety and security. Consequently, port operations have been halted until the rehabilitation process is complete.
The local government confirmed that preparations for the repair work are ongoing, with the technical planning now in its final stages and the project soon to enter the tendering phase. This acceleration is intended to ensure the port can resume operations as quickly as possible. “If we force it to remain operational, it would be dangerous. All our steps are being taken in accordance with safety procedures,” Benny added.
In addition to redirecting services to Pangkalbalam Port, the South Bangka Regency Government is also supporting PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry’s plan to utilise Sadai Public Port as a temporary berthing location. However, the final decision on this usage rests entirely with the Ministry of Transportation through the Sadai Class III Port Organising Unit Office (KUPP).
Benny noted that ASDP must submit a formal application, present technical feasibility assessments, and conduct berthing trials before receiving operational permits. “We hope this evaluation process is completed soon. If technically feasible and safe, using Sadai Public Port would shorten the travel distance to Belitung compared to going to Pangkalbalam,” he said.
The regional government will continue to coordinate with all relevant parties to ensure public mobility and inter-island logistics distribution are maintained throughout the rehabilitation period.