Lebaran Homecoming: DPR Asks The Government To Ensure The Feasibility Of Sea Transportation Modes

JAKARTA - Member of Commission V DPR RI, Irine Yusiana Roba Putri asked the Government to ensure the feasibility of transportation modes ahead of the peak of the 2025 Eid homecoming flow, especially sea transportation modes. Moreover, it is predicted that there will be a 50 percent increase in passenger ferry boats compared to the homecoming season in 2024.

"Seaship is one of the main choices for travelers, especially in archipelagic areas and areas that are not connected to adequate road infrastructure. The government has a big responsibility to ensure that the ship used is in a feasible, safe and comfortable condition for passengers," said Irine Yusiana Roba Putri, Wednesday, March 25.

For information, the Ministry of Transportation (Kemenhub) noted that train passengers and ferries experienced an increase of above 50 percent, on D-9 or Saturday, March 22. The government also predicts that the peak of the 2025 Eid homecoming flow will occur on D-3 or March 28, 2025.

According to Irine, the surge in passengers ahead of Lebaran often causes ships to overcapacity. "Of course this increases the risk of safety, especially if there is no strict supervision of the number of passengers and cargo," he said.

The PDIP legislator from the North Maluku electoral district also highlighted that there are still ships operated that are old and do not receive optimal treatment. He said this condition could cause technical problems in the middle of the trip such as strike engines or ship leakage.

In fact, he said, even though there are regulations related to ship feasibility, implementation in the field is often less than optimal. In some cases, ships that should not operate are still used due to weak supervision," said Irine.

Therefore, the member of the commission for infrastructure and transportation also asked the Government to impose strict sanctions for ship operators who violate safety rules. Including, revocation of operational permits if serious violations are found.

"The government must also monitor ticket prices in order to remain in accordance with the provisions and prevent the practice of brokers or fake ticket fraud. And ensure the availability of safety equipment such as buoys and sinks in sufficient quantities for all passengers," explained Irine.

On the other hand, Irine said bad weather conditions such as high waves and strong winds often pose a threat to ferry ships. Especially for ships with inadequate specifications to deal with extreme conditions.

Irine also reminded the Government to continue to coordinate with the Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) so that early warnings can be quickly known if there is potential for bad weather that could endanger ship trips. If the weather is not possible, according to him, ship operators must be ready to postpone travel for passenger safety.

"The weather conditions also need to be monitored continuously by the KSOP (Kesyahbandaran and Port Authority Office) and ship managers to avoid the bad effects of extreme weather, especially those currently hitting North Maluku," said Irine.

In order to avoid incidents that harm the community, the Government is reminded to take concrete steps in ensuring the feasibility of crossings during homecoming. For example, conducting a strict feasibility test (ramp check) on all ships operating, from the engine aspect, safety facilities, to passenger capacity.

"And stop operating ships that do not meet standards and ensure there is no dispensation for ships that are not feasible," he said.

In addition, continued Irine, the Government through the Ministry of Transportation also needs to coordinate with ship operators to increase the number of fleets to reduce density and avoid overcapacity. He also emphasized the importance of increasing port infrastructure during the Eid holiday season such as a more comfortable waiting room and a more organized ticket queue system.

"Especially every year, many travelers use motorbikes by bringing their children," said Irine.

Irine emphasized that the Government has a big responsibility in ensuring the safety of ferry ships during homecoming. "By carrying out strict supervision, ensuring the feasibility of ships, and improving facilities and regulations, the risk of accidents can be minimized," he continued.

Irine assessed that cooperation between the Government, ship operators, and the community is also needed to create a safer, more comfortable, and efficient marine transportation system for travelers. "These preventive measures are not only for safety, but also for ensuring homecoming is a pleasant experience without life-threatening incidents," said Irine.

Irine hopes that sea transportation services can be safer and more comfortable for the community during the Eid flow. One of them is by ensuring that the limit on the number of ship passengers is really enforced so that passenger safety is guaranteed.

"Don't let the overcapacity of passengers or cargo that can endanger safety," he said.

Irine also noted an increase in the flow of passengers and goods during the Lebaran holiday with sea transportation modes, including in North Maluku. The buildup of food transport trucks was discovered last year at the Bastiong Ternate Ferry Port heading to Halmahera because there are priorities for private vehicles.

Therefore, Irine hopes that PT. River, Lake, and Crossing Indonesia Ferry or ASDP can make a better two-wheeled, four-wheeled, and eight-wheeled vehicle regulation system so that the supply of basic necessities runs smoothly.