Hargo.co.id, GORONTALO – The Indonesian National Police (Polri) is conducting Operation Lilin to ensure security during the 2023 Christmas and 2024 New Year holidays.
The operation runs from December 22, 2023, to January 2, 2024, involving 129,923 combined personnel from the Indonesian National Army (TNI), the National Police, and other stakeholders.
Police Division Chief of Public Relations, Inspector General Sandi Nugroho, stated that the peak of the Christmas holiday travel is predicted to occur on December 22 and December 24, 2023. The return traffic is expected on December 26 and December 27, 2023.
“As for the New Year’s holiday travel, the peak is expected on Friday, December 29, 2023, with the return traffic on Tuesday, January 2, 2024,” added Sandi.
Sandi also provided tips for people traveling during the Christmas and New Year holidays to ensure a comfortable and safe experience.
“Firstly, take care of your health and physical fitness,” said Sandi.
Additionally, for those using private vehicles, it is advised to check the vehicle’s condition before departure. For those using public transportation, ensure to have tickets for both the outbound and return journeys.
“Also, double-check the security of the home that will be left behind, such as electricity, stoves, and water,” he said.
Furthermore, prepare sufficient provisions for the journey, and if using a private vehicle on toll roads, be sure to have an e-toll card.
“Do not forget to bring medicines or a first aid kit in case of illness during the journey,” he added.
For private vehicle users, they are urged to stop and rest if tired to prevent accidents.
“Utilize the rest areas provided if you feel tired while driving. Follow all instructions from field officers for a safe and secure journey,” he said.
Sandi mentioned that they are collaborating with the Ministry of Transportation to regulate the operational restrictions of cargo transport on toll roads.
For the Christmas holiday travel, restrictions will be in place from Friday, December 22, at 00:00 WIB to Sunday, December 24, at 24:00 WIB. For the return traffic, restrictions will be implemented from Tuesday, December 26, at 00:00 WIB to Wednesday, December 27, at 08:00 WIB.
During the New Year holiday travel, the restrictions will be enforced from December 29 at 00:00 WIB to December 30 at 24:00 WIB. For the return traffic, restrictions will be in place from Monday, January 1, 2024, at 00:00 WIB to Tuesday, January 2, 2024, at 08:00 WIB.
“Restrictions on cargo transport vehicles will be exempted for vehicles carrying fuel, money, fertilizer, livestock, animal feed, and basic necessities,” he said.
Polri will also implement contraflow measures to alleviate traffic congestion on toll roads. However, this policy is situational and dynamic depending on field conditions.
“Contraflow measures have been prepared to ease traffic congestion on toll roads,” said Sandi.
People are advised to stay updated through mass media and social media.
“Always keep important numbers to stay informed about traffic conditions and any issues,” he said.
He hopes that people can enjoy their holidays with family or return to their hometowns safely and comfortably.(*)
Press Release: Public Relations National Police Headquarters
