Stories of Residents Beginning Eid Journeys Early After Losing Train Ticket Wars

Pasar Senen Station in Central Jakarta began experiencing increased congestion from Eid travellers this afternoon. Among them were residents who have started their journeys home early after losing out in the competition for train tickets ahead of Eid.

One such traveller is Mahmud, a native of Blitar, East Java. He initially intended to travel home five days before Eid but found himself departing earlier.

“Normally I would leave about five days before, or three days before, something like that. Since I couldn’t get tickets for the usual time, it doesn’t matter,” Mahmud said when met at Pasar Senen Station on Wednesday (11 March 2026).

Before departing early, Mahmud spoke with his superior to request early leave. His supervisor granted permission.

“Before getting the tickets, I spoke to him saying, ‘Sir, can I leave on this particular date?’ He said, ‘Sure, no problem,’ so that was that,” he explained.

Mahmud revealed his reasoning for sticking with train travel. He noted that alternative options such as buses would incur greater expenses.

“Buses are expensive,” he said.

He planned to spend approximately ten days in his hometown of Blitar.

“About ten days, I reckon,” he said.

By contrast, Kayfa, a resident from Tulungagung, East Java, had already planned to depart early. A professional athlete, Kayfa began his journey home after his club suspended training in observance of Eid.

“Because of the Eid holiday break, training was suspended and we were allowed to go home,” Kayfa said when met at Pasar Senen Station.

Kayfa stated that he had secured his ticket before the onset of Ramadan. At the time of booking, tickets remained plentiful.

“I got my ticket before Ramadan, mate. There were still plenty available back then,” he said.