Bali prepares 30 buses and strategic traffic management measures to ensure smooth transportation during the 2025 New Year celebrations, prioritising safety and convenience for travellers.
The Bali Provincial Transportation Agency is taking proactive measures to prevent a repeat of last year’s traffic chaos during the 2025 New Year celebrations. With roads gridlocked and passengers stranded during the previous year’s peak travel period, many were forced to abandon their vehicles and run several kilometres with their suitcases to catch flights. Despite delayed departures, some travellers missed their flights altogether.
To address this, the Bali Provincial Transportation Agency has prepared 30 buses to operate during the Nataru period, aiming to ensure smooth transportation and minimise congestion.
“We have prepared 30 buses on days that are expected to be of concern. We only have Trans Sarbagita, later we will ask for support from Trans Metro Dewata as well,” said IGW Samsi Gunarta, Head of the Bali Transportation Agency.
These buses will be stationed at strategic points such as the Kuta Central Parking, Benoa Harbour, and the Nusa Dua area. They will serve dual purposes: transporting passengers during emergencies and alleviating traffic jams during peak times. Gunarta emphasised the importance of these preparations, stating, “We hope there will be no more traffic jams like last year.”
One notable challenge from the previous year was the lack of anticipation for certain issues, leading to major disruptions. This year, the agency is optimistic that the situation will be better controlled. Among the steps taken is a traffic access simulation at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport, conducted by the police.
Gunarta highlighted another critical strategy: keeping emergency lanes on toll roads and national highways clear. “Emergency lanes will be used for emergency purposes if there is a traffic jam. Therefore, I ask all parties to pay attention to this,” he appealed. Vehicles parked in these lanes, especially near Ngurah Rai Airport, will be towed to ensure they remain accessible.
While the deployment of buses is a key element of the plan, questions remain about their effectiveness if roads become completely gridlocked. Nevertheless, Gunarta remains confident in the preparation. “We currently have only Trans Sarbagita, but we will also request support from Trans Metro Dewata,” he explained. These buses, recognisable by their red colour and free Wi-Fi, are commonly used along Bali’s tourist routes.
By taking these measures, including improving coordination with stakeholders and learning from last year’s experience, the Bali Transportation Agency aims to provide a smooth and safe transportation experience during the Nataru period. Both tourists and residents are expected to benefit from these efforts, enjoying their holidays comfortably and without major disruptions.