inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. The Bali Regional Police predict that the peak return flow from Java to Bali during the Eid al-Fitr holiday will occur in two waves, due to the government's policy regarding the implementation of a flexible work system, or work from anywhere (WFA).

The Head of the Bali Regional Police Operations Bureau, Senior Superintendent Soelistijono, stated that the first wave is expected to occur on the 24th-25th, while the second wave is expected to occur on the 27th-28th, which will also be the peak of the return flow.

"Yes, if the predictions are in line with what the Indonesian National Police (INP) Chief previously stated, the peak will be on the 27th-28th. However, the peak also occurred on 24th-25th, as there are two phases of return flow," explained Soelistijono on Tuesday (3/24/2026).

He explained that previously there was a severe traffic congestion, with queues reaching approximately 30 kilometers. This situation is being evaluated, particularly regarding the ferry capacity at the port.

The Bali Regional Police have coordinated with various parties, including the Traffic and Emergency Management Agency (ASDP) in Gilimanuk and Ketapang, to anticipate the surge in traffic. A number of personnel have also been deployed at congestion-prone areas, particularly on the route from Gilimanuk to Tabanan and Buleleng.

Furthermore, various handling scenarios have been prepared, including the deployment of officers at road junctions and the provision of supporting facilities such as tow trucks, ambulances, and fire engines to expedite handling of any traffic disruptions.

Soelistijono added that congestion is expected to be concentrated at Ketapang Port during this return flow.

"I don't think the return flow in Gilimanuk is as concerning as it was during the homecoming flow as the surge in traffic volume is going to be in Ketapang," he explained.

Nevertheless, his office is still taking anticipatory measures across Bali to prevent further congestion.

He also highlighted the high volume of vehicles during the homecoming traffic, which exceeded capacity, to the point that all parking areas, buffer zones, and delay systems prepared in the Gilimanuk, Melaya, and Negara areas were fully utilized.

Going forward, he recommended adding large-capacity vessels to increase vehicle carrying capacity, allowing for faster crossings and reducing potential congestion.

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