GORONTALO CITY, Kominfotik – Minister of Transportation Dudy Purwagandhi is placing significant focus on the management of the 2026 Eid al-Fitr (Lebaran) transportation in Gorontalo Province. This was highlighted during the Eid Transport Coordination Meeting held at the Djalaludin Airport Old Terminal VIP room, Gorontalo Regency, on Friday (2/27/2026).
According to data from the Ministry of Transportation, approximately 340,000 people are expected to travel to Gorontalo for the homecoming (mudik) season this year. Minister Dudy emphasized that given these substantial numbers, the movement of people during the peak departure and return flows must be managed effectively to ensure safety and efficiency.
National and Local Trends
Minister Dudy revealed that based on a national survey, an estimated 143 million people will travel across Indonesia for the Eid holidays this year. While this figure represents a slight decrease of 1.75% compared to the previous year, he warned that authorities must remain vigilant to prevent surges similar to those experienced in 2025.
Beyond the primary travel routes, the Minister specifically instructed local officials in Gorontalo to anticipate unique local traditions that increase traffic congestion, such as:
Malam Qunut (Mid-Ramadan traditions)
Pasar Senggol (Seasonal night markets)
Tumbilotohe (Festival of Lights)
Lebaran Ketupat (Celebrations a week after Eid)
Increased visits to local tourist attractions
He stressed that these local activities require serious attention so they do not become bottlenecks for travelers.
Appreciation from the Provincial Government
Meanwhile, the Governor of Gorontalo, Gusnar Ismail, expressed his deep gratitude for the Minister’s visit to the province, often referred to as the “Porch of Medina” (Bumi Serambi Madinah).
The Governor noted that the visit is a result of the strong communication established between the regional and central governments, leading to Gorontalo being selected as one of the provinces personally inspected by the Minister regarding the 2026 Eid transportation readiness.
Reporter: Haris
Translated by Fera
