MEDAN, kiprahkita.net - The Ministry of Public Works (PU) accompanied the Specific Work Visit (Kunsfik) of Commission V of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI) to Medan, North Sumatra, to inspect infrastructure and transportation preparedness for the 2024 Christmas and 2025 New Year (Nataru) holiday season.
"The Ministry of PU, along with all Toll Road Business Entities (BUJT) in North Sumatra, is committed to ensuring optimal conditions of toll road networks and rest areas, guaranteeing safety for holiday travelers during the 2024/2025 Nataru period,” stated K. M. Arsyad, the Ministry's Expert Staff for Interagency Relations, during a briefing to the Commission V delegation.
Arsyad confirmed that all repair work on toll roads would be completed by December 15, 2024, or 10 days before Nataru, to avoid disrupting the flow of holiday traffic.
He added that North Sumatra currently has six operational toll road segments totaling 274.01 km, including:
- Belawan–Medan–Tanjung Morawa (42.7 km)
- Medan–Kualanamu–Tebing Tinggi (62.11 km)
- Medan–Binjai (17.67 km)
- Binjai–Stabat–Tanjung Pura (38.5 km)
- Tebing Tinggi–Indrapura (20.4 km)
- Indrapura–Kisaran (47 km)
- Tebing Tinggi–Sinaksak (45.63 km).
To further facilitate smooth traffic during Nataru, the Ministry plans to open a functional segment of the Binjai-Langsa Toll Road from Tanjung Pura to Pangkalan Brandan, spanning 18.9 km.
Arsyad also highlighted efforts to ensure national roads are functional, free of potholes, and equipped with proper signage and markings.
“The Ministry of PU has also deployed a Disaster Response Team to address emergencies in disaster-prone areas, such as flooding, water pooling, and landslides, while maintaining coordination with Korlantas, BMKG, and other relevant institutions,” he added.
Chairman of the Kunsfik team, Ilham Pangestu, explained that the visit aimed to evaluate transportation readiness during Nataru to ensure safe and secure travel.
“We are confident that Commission V’s partners are prepared to face the 2024/2025 Nataru season and will continue to prioritize the safety, comfort, and security of the public,” he said.
Ilham emphasized the importance of synergy and collaboration among stakeholders to prevent recurring issues such as traffic congestion, accidents, and overcrowding at ports during the holiday season.
Regarding Over Dimension Over Load (ODOL) vehicles, Ilham urged stricter inspections beyond vehicle documentation, including driver health checks.
“Strengthening command centers, enhancing field monitoring, and addressing passenger complaints at transport hubs are also crucial. All parties, including local governments and stakeholders, must work together to provide the best possible service for the public,” he concluded.(bpjt)
0 Comments