The Bali Regional Police is gearing up for an expected surge in tourist arrivals during the 2024 Eid period, with projections indicating a 9% increase compared to the previous year. Soelistijono, Chief of Operations of the Bali Regional Police, disclosed that around 1.09 million visitors are anticipated during this festive period, a notable uptick from the 998,521 recorded in 2023.
Key to managing this influx is the careful anticipation of peak traffic times. Soelistijono highlighted that the apex of Eid homecoming traffic at Ngurah Rai Airport is forecasted for April 7, expecting approximately 68,765 arrivals, comprised of 33,300 domestic travelers and 35,465 international visitors. Conversely, the peak of return traffic is estimated for April 14, with around 69,311 individuals departing, consisting of 33,836 domestic tourists and 35,465 international travelers.
To ensure smooth operations and handle the anticipated congestion during the Eid holiday, the Bali Regional Police have mobilized thousands of personnel, focusing on effective crowd control and security measures.
Looking back at previous years’ Eid periods provides valuable insights. In 2022, Ngurah Rai Airport saw 174,272 domestic tourists arriving and 156,573 departing. The following year, in 2023, these numbers surged to 249,540 arrivals and 232,389 departures, indicating a significant increase in tourist activity during the festive season.
Handy Heryudhitiawan, the General Manager of Ngurah Rai International Airport, emphasized the airport’s readiness to accommodate the surge in visitors during Eid al-Fitr. “Based on previous years’ experiences, Bali has always been crowded with domestic tourists during the long Eid al-Fitr holiday,” Heryudhitiawan stated. “Therefore, from April 3 to 18, we, along with all stakeholders at the airport, will establish an integrated Eid al-Fitr 1445 H air transportation post.”
The Transportation Ministry, meanwhile, is bracing for a substantial increase in the Eid exodus this year. They forecast approximately 193.6 million individuals, representing approximately 71.7% of the nation’s populace, partaking in the Eid celebrations—an increase of 50% compared to the previous year’s exodus. This surge underscores the importance of meticulous planning and coordination to ensure the smooth flow of travelers during this busy period.
