Indonesia is experiencing a record-breaking surge in holiday travel
as more than 190 million people embark on the annual Eid al-Fitr exodus.
This mass migration, locally known as “mudik”, is the reunion of
families during the festive occasion.
A National Police spokesperson revealed that this year's exodus has
shattered previous records, with an estimated 193.6 million individuals
planning to celebrate Eid al-Fitr by returning to their hometowns. This
figure surpasses last year's already staggering count of 123 million
participants.
The bustling capital of Jakarta, typically notorious for its traffic
congestion, has transformed into a deserted landscape as businesses
shutter their doors and affluent families accommodate themselves in
hotels with domestic help absent due to the exodus.
To ensure the safety of travellers amidst the influx, over 155,000
security personnel have been deployed across the country. Additionally,
authorities have implemented various measures, including providing
travel discounts for early departures and mobilising military
helicopters for swift evacuation in case of emergencies.
Despite the festive spirit, concerns persist over road safety, as
hundreds of accidents occur annually during the Eid exodus. With
heightened security measures in place along major routes, authorities
are striving to minimise risks and safeguard the well-being of
travellers throughout the holiday period, which ends on 16 April.