Jakarta (ANTARA) - Transportation Minister Budi Karya Sumadi advised people to undertake Eid al-Fitr homecoming travel earlier to avoid heavy traffic during the peak of the exodus, which has been predicted from April 5–8, 2024."We appeal to people whose children are already on (Eid) holiday to leave earlier for the homecoming," he said at a meeting on Eid al-Fitr preparations held by the National Police (Polri) here on Monday.
Sumadi also reminded people not to use motorcycles for the homecoming trip as they are considered dangerous. Public transportation and free homecoming trip programs are being provided by the Ministry of Transportation and other institutions.
According to the Minsiter, Polri must pay attention to several things during this year's homecoming transportation period. The first is street markets that often become a problem on exodus routes, especially in West Java, Central Java, and East Java.
The second is regarding ship management at ports in South Sulawesi, Riau, East Kalimantan, and East Java, especially Madura. For air transportation, Soekarno Hatta International Airport and I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport are expected to become more crowded, thereby requiring more attention.
He affirmed that his ministry has prepared an Eid Transportation Integrated Post that will be opened at the Mataram Room of the Transportation Ministry's Headquarters from April 3 to 18.
Meanwhile, Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture, Muhadjir Effendy, advised people and transportation operators to check their vehicles before using them. He also asked people to ensure their health and fitness before joining the exodus.
Polri chief, General Listyo Sigit Prabowo, said that Polri will carry out the 2024 Ketupat Operation to serve people and secure the Eid homecoming exodus and return periods.
Baca juga: Minister calls for cross-sector synergy to ensure smooth Eid exodus
Baca juga: Plane tickets reasonable amid Eid exodus flow
The operation will be carried out from April 4 to 16 with a total of 155,165 personnel involved.
"There will be 5,784 posts prepared to provide services in toll roads, rest areas, and tourist destination routes," he informed.
Meanwhile, commander of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), General Agus Subiyanto, said that the TNI has readied 67,955 personnel to support the police. Supporting vehicles such as aircraft, helicopters, tow trucks, and ambulances have also been prepared.
