The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) is collaborating with various stakeholders, including the Ministry of Transportation, Indonesia Search and Rescue Agency, and the Indonesian Navy, to ensure safe and smooth crossings at Merak-Bakauheni during the upcoming Christmas and New Year 2024-2025 period.
The BMKG has been conducting a series of coordinations with the stakeholders to anticipate potential extreme weather conditions that may occur during the peak travel season. BMKG's director, Dwikorita Karnawati, emphasized the need for a integrated approach and close collaboration among agencies to mitigate potential risks and ensure operational safety.
"Extreme weather is a real threat, especially during peak travel seasons like Christmas and New Year's, which significantly impact mobilitiy. By harnessing synergies and implementing contingency SOPs, we can prevent accidents and ensure safe and smooth operations," said Dwikorita.
The BMKG team conducted a series of checks at the Merak Port, including monitoring and controlling lalu lintas boats, inspecting the readiness of weather monitoring systems, and checking the accuracy of weather forecasts. The team also evaluated the readiness of tsunami evacuation infrastructure, including evacuation routes, temporary shelters, warning sirens, and contingency SOPs for potential earthquakes and tsunamis.
Dwikorita expressed hope that the findings from these coordinations will have a positive impact on ensuring safe and efficient operations during the holiday season. "Our goal is not only to anticipate extreme weather, but also to ensure the safety and comfort of boat users," she emphasized.