Bakauheni Port Still Swamped as Travelers Return Post-Lebaran holiday
Heavy traffic persists at Bakauheni port on Java-bound crossings.
By Archyde News Service
Jakarta – the exodus back to Java continues to strain infrastructure at Bakauheni Port in Lampung, even on H+6 of Lebaran 2025 (Monday, April 7, 2025), as holiday travelers make their way home. The port remains a crucial chokepoint for those returning from Sumatra.
According to Antara news agency, as of early Monday morning (00:48 WIB), a steady stream of passengers from Sumatra kept arriving. This sustained influx is placing considerable pressure on port operations.
The sheer volume of vehicles has kept police,military personnel,and ASDP (Indonesia Ferry) officers busy managing traffic flow within the port to prevent gridlock. the situation is further complex by the continued arrival of pedestrian passengers.
One traveler, Nurkholis, explained his decision to travel at night, stating, Deliberately not to traffic jams on the same road at the port, as I saw the news and on yesterday’s social media at the port was badly jammed.
His comment reflects a broader awareness among travelers about potential delays and congestion, prompting many to adjust their schedules.
ASDP Response and Mitigation Efforts
Syamsudin, General Manager of PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry Bakauheni Branch, reported significant passenger and vehicle numbers. Based on 24 -hour data from the Bakauheni Branch ASDP post, the number of ship passengers carried out the crossing of 162,888 people, while for vehicles as many as 42,189 units.
To manage the surge, ASDP has implemented several strategies, including a delay system and enhanced ticket screening.We implement a delay system and ticket screening in each rest area, so there is no buildup of homecoming vehicles in the port area,
Syamsudin explained. This approach aims to distribute the flow of vehicles and prevent bottlenecks within the port itself. This mirror’s mitigation strategies implemented in the U.S.during peak holiday travel times, such as variable tolling on highways and staggered release of traffic from rest stops.
Syamsudin added that passenger traffic heading towards Merak Port in Banten continues to rise, indicating sustained demand for crossings from Sumatra to Java. Understanding these traffic patterns is essential for effective management and resource allocation. The use of real-time data analytics, similar to what’s used by the Department of Transportation (DOT) on major U.S. Interstate highways, could provide valuable insights and help optimize ferry schedules and staffing levels.
| Date | Passengers | Vehicles | Strategy |
|---|---|---|---|
| April 7, 2025 (H+6 Lebaran) | 162,888 | 42,189 | Delay System, Ticket Screening |
| Projected (Next Day) | >150,000 | >40,000 | Continued Delay System, Increased Staffing |
Broader Implications and Future Planning
The recurring congestion at Bakauheni Port highlights the need for long-term infrastructure improvements and alternative transportation solutions. this situation mirrors challenges faced by major transportation hubs in the U.S., such as the bottlenecks around major airports during Thanksgiving or Christmas. In the U.S., solutions have included expanding airport capacity, improving public transportation links, and promoting off-peak travel.
Possible solutions for Bakauheni port could include:
- Expanding port capacity with additional ferry terminals and parking areas.
- Improving road infrastructure leading to and from the port.
- encouraging the use of alternative transportation modes, such as trains or buses.
- Implementing a more refined pre-booking and scheduling system for ferry tickets.
Investing in these improvements is crucial to ensure smooth and efficient transportation for both passengers and goods,supporting economic growth and regional connectivity. A well-functioning transportation system is vital,and strategic planning for the future is going to be necesary.
