Government Ensures Smooth Java-Sumatra Crossing at Three Banten Ports

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Minister of Transportation, Dudy Purwagandhi inspected the ports of BBJ Bojonegara, Ciwandan, and Merak from Sunday, 15 March 2026 night until the early hours of Monday, March 16, 2026. This inspection aimed to ensure the smooth flow of Java-Sumatra crossings for both logistics vehicles and passengers ahead of the 2026 Eid homecoming peak.

"The condition at BBJ Bojonegara Port on Sunday night was observed to be busy but flowing smoothly, and the overall situation at the port appeared safe and controlled. All trucks have entered the port area and are waiting for their turn to board the ships. Essentially, there is no vehicle buildup outside the port," Dudy conveyed.

Minister Dudy noted that the 12 vessels operating at BBJ Bojonegara Port are currently sufficient to transport logistics vehicles to Sumatra. Nevertheless, the government has prepared mitigation measures, including diverting vehicles to buffer zones and providing parking pockets with a capacity of 4,000 units to anticipate any significant surge in goods.

Dudy stated that his ministry will consistently implement the Joint Decree (SKB) regarding port distribution based on vehicle categories. "Even if conditions at Merak Port are quiet, logistics vehicles in categories 7, 8, and 9 heading to Sumatra must still pass through BBJ Bojonegara Port," he said.

During the inspection at Ciwandan and Merak Ports, a similar "busy but smooth" condition was observed. At these two ports, travelers using motorcycles and cars were only seen queuing to board the ships, with no congestion occurring outside the port areas.

According to data from PT ASDP, the number of passengers crossing from Java to Sumatra on H-6 of Eid reached 48,286 people, with motorcycle volume at 4,446 units. Meanwhile, 6,544 four-wheeled vehicles, 1,290 trucks, and 296 buses were recorded crossing during the same period.

Minister Dudy expressed that the services provided by operators and field officers to travelers have been good and well-measured so far. However, he pledged to conduct a thorough evaluation should there be any suboptimal service provided to the public.

The Minister added that facilities at Ciwandan and Merak Ports are fundamentally adequate to serve the travelers. Various facilities have been provided, ranging from rest areas, children's playrooms, and health posts to workshops and MSME stalls that are available at all times.