SURABAYA (ISL News) - PT Pelabuhan Indonesia (Persero) or Pelindo stated its readiness to support the development of the Celukan Bawang Port, Bali–Pelabuhan Jangkar, East Java, crossing route as an alternative to distribute vehicle flow and reduce congestion on the Ketapang–Gilimanuk route, especially during long holiday periods and peak public movement.
The plan was discussed in a coordination meeting between the Indonesian Minister of Transportation Dudy Purwagandhi, the Governor of East Java Khofifah Indar Parawansa, and Pelindo President Director Achmad Muchtasyar at the Grahadi State Building, Surabaya, Wednesday (15/7).
The development of the Celukan Bawang-Jangkar route is one of the alternatives being considered by the government to strengthen the Java-Bali ferry system. This route is expected to divert traffic from being entirely concentrated at Ketapang and Gilimanuk Ports.
Transportation Minister Dudy Purwagandhi said the government is preparing a number of steps to create a more reliable Java-Bali ferry system, including through optimizing alternative ports.
"The development of the Celukan Bawang-Jangkar crossing is an effort to redistribute traffic so that it isn't entirely concentrated in Ketapang-Gilimanuk. With this alternative route, we hope to improve public services and reduce congestion, especially during long holiday periods," said Dudy.
According to Dudy, the development of the route requires coordination and support from all stakeholders, from the central government, regional governments, port operators, to ferry operators, so that it can be optimally prepared and implemented.
Pelindo President Director Achmad Muchtasyar emphasized Pelindo's readiness to support the government's policy of optimizing Celukan Bawang Port as part of strengthening ferry connectivity between Java and Bali.
"Pelindo is ready to support the government's policy of optimizing Celukan Bawang Port as an alternative crossing point to Jangkar Port. This step is expected to expand service options for the public and help reduce traffic congestion on the Ketapang-Gilimanuk route," said Achmad.
Achmad added that optimizing Celukan Bawang Port also has the potential to strengthen transportation and logistics connectivity in northern Bali. With a more equitable distribution of vehicle and freight movement, the development of this route is expected to support smooth mobility and boost economic activity in Bali and East Java.
"Pelindo will continue to coordinate with the Ministry of Transportation, the East Java Provincial Government, the Bali Provincial Government, and relevant stakeholders to identify and ensure the port's infrastructure and operational readiness needs," Achmad added.
Through this coordination, it is hoped that the Celukan Bawang-Jangkar route development plan can be implemented in a measured manner, while still prioritizing safety aspects, smooth service, and benefits for the community.
(ISL News Editorial Team/Pelindo Regional 3 Public Relations).
