Batam Batam Transportation Agency Urges Pancung Ship Drivers To Be Alert To Extreme Weather

Extreme weather illustration/ Photo: Antara

JAKARTA - The Batam City Transportation Service (Dishub) appealed to motorists who serve inter-island shipping to increase vigilance while sailing, given the extreme weather conditions and the potential for high tides that are expected to occur in the coming months.

"We have emphasized the importance of safety and to comply with protocols during activities at sea," said Head of the Batam Transportation Service Salim in Batam, Saturday.

He explained that his party had given instructions to the pilot drivers of Pancung ships in coastal areas serving inter-island shipping, such as Tanjung Riau, Sagulung, Behindpadang, Sekupang and Punggur.

"Boat pancung must be equipped with a life jacket and other safety equipment. It is not allowed to overload the passengers being transported," he explained.

Salim focuses the safety of helmsmen to minimize the risk of disasters and accidents in the high seas with this anticipation.

"It's also important to pay attention to the feasibility of a sunken boat, weather factors before going to sea and to prioritize safety factors," said Salim.

"We have been advised verbally and will continue to remind for mutual safety," he continued.

The appeal was made firmly after a major storm that hit Batam City on the night of Tuesday (17/9).

The Batam Transportation Agency hopes to anticipate disasters for flood boat helmsmen given uncertain weather conditions and high risk for fishermen, as well as users of sea transportation in the area.