RI Govt boosts health services for Eid travel surge

hartono · Mar 5, 2026

Transportation Minister Dudy Purwagandhi (left) meets with Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin (right) in Jakarta, Wednesday (March 4, 2026). ANTARA/HO-BKIP Transportation Ministry

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesia is strengthening health services at major transport hubs ahead of the 2026 Eid al-Fitr travel season, with the transportation and health ministries coordinating measures to ensure safe and smooth journeys for millions of holiday travelers.

Transportation Minister Dudy Purwagandhi said on Thursday the initiative includes expanding medical facilities and improving emergency response systems at the country’s busiest transport hubs during the annual homecoming, or mudik, and return travel period.

“To ensure smooth services, we hope for support from the Health Ministry in increasing health facilities, especially at the busiest public transportation hubs,” Purwagandhi said in a statement.

He said he held a coordination meeting with Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin on Wednesday to discuss preparations for the 2026 Eid transport program.

The cooperation aims to strengthen health infrastructure at transportation centers while improving public health monitoring during travel, he said.

Key measures include health checks for drivers, such as blood pressure screening and urine tests to ensure they are free from hazardous substances that could endanger passengers.

Authorities will also set up medical posts at terminals, railway stations, seaports, airports and rest areas along toll and arterial roads.

“These posts will function as rest areas and emergency health check centers for travelers and drivers who experience health problems during their journey,” the minister said.

Purwagandhi also supported deploying emergency response teams and motorcycle ambulances to enable faster assistance in traffic accidents or medical emergencies, particularly in areas where four-wheeled vehicles face limited access.

In addition, the government plans to ensure the availability of hygienic lactation rooms at strategic locations that currently lack permanent facilities.

The move aims to support mothers and infants during long journeys and help prevent excessive fatigue among traveling families.

Based on the 2026 Eid Transportation Movement Potential Survey, the busiest departure hubs during the holiday period are expected to include Pasar Senen Station, Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, Pulo Gebang Terminal, Tanjung Priok Port and Merak Ferry Port.

Major destination hubs are projected to include Yogyakarta Tugu Station, Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, Tirtonadi Terminal, Tanjung Perak Port and Bakauheni Ferry Port.

The Transportation Ministry said it would continue coordinating with other government institutions, including the Health Ministry, to anticipate potential challenges during the peak travel season.

“This will ensure Eid transportation runs smoothly and provides optimal protection for the public,” Purwagandhi said.