To Reduce Congestion at Ketapang-Gilimanuk Ports, Travellers Advised to Avoid Peak Return Flow

PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry (Persero) is advising holidaymakers to avoid travelling during the second peak return flow on 28-29 March 2026. This measure aims to reduce the potential for congestion in the Ketapang-Gilimanuk port area. On the other hand, ASDP states that vehicles returning from Java to Bali are increasing gradually. Therefore, ferry services continue to run smoothly without significant congestion. During the return flow period from 22-25 March 2026, 47,945 vehicles have returned to Bali. This figure is 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. “This figure confirms that the return flow is taking place gradually, providing room for the service system to operate optimally without excessive pressure,” said Deputy Director Yossianis Marciano of PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry (Persero) in his statement on Thursday (26/3). He explained that this situation is inseparable from the operational readiness strengthened since the beginning of the Lebaran transport period. According to him, the distribution of vehicles not concentrated at one time is key to maintaining smoothness at the ports. “We ensure that services on the Ketapang-Gilimanuk route remain optimal in anticipating the return flow. This gradual movement helps maintain a stable operational rhythm,” he said. General Manager of ASDP Ketapang Branch, Arief Eko, explained that vehicle entry to the port is managed strictly with the support of buffer zones and strengthened traffic management. “All operational schemes are implemented adaptively, including the optimisation of buffer zones to keep vehicle flow moving without accumulation,” he said. The performance of services at Ketapang also shows a positive trend. 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, an increase of 6.6% compared to the same period last year. A significant increase was 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, an increase of 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, the total number of passengers reached 375,617 people, up 0.8%, with a total of 91,919 vehicles, an increase of 5.5%,” said Arief. The Ministry of Transportation is once again holding a free holiday travel programme for Lebaran 2026. The government is preparing 78,000 seats for sea ferries and trains. For land transport, 401 units are provided.