JAKARTA – The government is taking serious steps in facing the end-of-year celebrations by optimizing joint posts to maintain public security and comfort.
National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo asked the police to anticipate extortion that often occurs in tourist areas, especially on back roads.
“We see a tendency for people to use back roads, so we asked for a sweep, especially during peak traffic. From the existing reports, there is indeed potential for extortion,” said Sigit
The Chief of Police also revealed an increase in public mobility to tourist attractions ahead of the New Year. He asked for intensive coordination with various stakeholders to ensure tighter security.
“I ask that in the future anticipation be carried out by increasing joint patrols between the TNI-Polri and all related stakeholders,” he said.
The synergy between the TNI, Polri, and related agencies is expected to support the smooth running of Christmas and New Year (Nataru) operations.
“Continue to improve synergy and solidarity among all relevant stakeholders, so that the series of Nataru operations can run smoothly and the public truly gets optimal service,” he stressed.
Meanwhile, the Bali Provincial Transportation Agency (Dishub) has prepared a strategy to anticipate traffic congestion ahead of New Year’s Eve. Head of the Bali Transportation Agency’s Traffic Engineering Management Supervision Section, Kadek Dwi Ratna Partami, said that the step had been taken since December 19, 2024 to January 3, 2025.
“We set up joint posts in several strategic locations to monitor and regulate traffic flow,” said Ratna.
Congestion that often occurs is caused by haphazard parking and community activities around the road. To overcome this, the Transportation Agency regulates parking even though limited personnel and facilities are obstacles.
“Currently, law enforcement is still in the form of appeals, socialization, and issuing tickets by the police,” added Ratna.
As New Year’s Eve approaches, the focus of traffic management will be directed to dense areas such as Kuta and Denpasar. Joint officers are placed in crowded centers to ensure smooth traffic flow.
“We also encourage business managers and celebration venues to provide special parking areas for visitors,” Ratna concluded.