Now that Lebaran is over, the mudik season has hit its final phase—the return of homecomers to their adopted residence.
While Bali authorities underwent a number of preparations prior to the mudik season, including setting up free health services, this year they are taking measures to stop a potential influx of wannabe Bali residents by checking for KTPs (residence cards) at Port Gilimanuk, Tribun Bali reported.
On Sunday, two out of four KTP-less individuals were sent back to their place of origin, with two being allowed to continue their journey due to getting the OK by their destination’s village head.
Individuals from Bali local authorities, the Department of Population and Civil Registration, the civil service police and the Indonesian army took turns staffing the checkpoints at Port Gilimanuk.
In addition to KTP-less residents, Bali authorities are also reported to be on the lookout for individuals who are on the wanted list and dangerous objects such as explosives, sharp knives, and narcotics.
So far the checks have turned up nothing suspicious (yet).
Tribun Bali suspects that mudik-goers will continue to make their way back to Bali through Port Gilimanuk until Sunday 26 July.
Meanwhile, the majority of mudik-goers who generally travel by air are expected to grace Ngurah Rai Airport yesterday and today.
Photo at Gilimanuk Port: Sonny Tumbelaka/AFP
