Business Leaders Identify Root Causes of Ferry Port Congestion

Structural Issues and Peak Season Challenges

The Indonesian National Shipping, Lake, and Ferry Transport Entrepreneurs Association (GAPASDAP) has shed light on the factors causing congestion at ferry ports during the peak travel season around the 2025/2026 New Year holidays. According to Khoiri Soetomo, Chairman of GAPASDAP, the congestion experienced on key routes such as Merak-Bakauheni was not the result of insufficient ferry vessels. Instead, the association pointed to a combination of factors including extreme weather conditions, the recent implementation of the online SPB system through Inaportnet, and a significant increase in cargo vehicle traffic.

Key Factors Contributing to Congestion

1. Extreme Weather Conditions: Adverse weather played a significant role in disrupting ferry operations, leading to delays and extended waiting times for vehicles and passengers.
2. Implementation of Online SPB System: The introduction of the online Single Payment Billing (SPB) system via Inaportnet, while aimed at improving efficiency, caused initial operational hiccups that contributed to the congestion.
3. Surge in Cargo Vehicle Volume: The period leading up to the New Year holidays saw a marked increase in the number of cargo vehicles using the ferry services, further exacerbating the congestion.

Structural Issues at Ferry Ports

GAPASDAP emphasized that the root cause of the congestion lies in structural issues related to the ferry port infrastructure. The association highlighted that the limited number, capacity, and quality of port docks are the primary structural problems. These issues become particularly pronounced during peak travel seasons when the volume of traffic surges.

Implications and Future Recommendations

The findings by GAPASDAP underscore the need for infrastructure improvements at ferry ports to mitigate future congestion. Addressing the structural issues will be crucial in enhancing the efficiency and capacity of ferry services, especially during peak travel periods. The association's insights are expected to inform policy discussions and potential investments in port infrastructure.