Merak, Banten (ANTARA) - Transportation Minister Budi Karya Sumadi and Public Works and Public Housing Minister Basuki Hadimuljono conducted a formal assessment of the Merak-Bakauheni Executive Terminal's readiness prior to the upcoming annual exodus of Eid al-Fitr 2019.

Antara journalist in Merak, Banten, on Saturday, reported aboard a helicopter from Jakarta that both ministers took the time to inspect the Executive Terminal and then headed to a room for the Eid al-Fitr coordination meeting.

Director General of Land Transportation Budi Setiyadi and President Director of PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry (Persero) Ira Puspadewi were present during the review and meeting.

The ministers conducted a review of the port to guarantee the stakeholders' readiness to handle the homecoming and return flow during this year's Eid.

The Merak Port is deemed significant and strategic, as a back and forth route, since it connects the islands of Java and Sumatra and is ideal for transporting passengers, vehicles, and logistics aboard a roro, or crossing ship.

The Merak Executive Terminal was recently inaugurated for back and forth trips during this year's Lebaran as well as a precautionary measure to handle a surge in passengers and vehicles between islands.

In addition, the Merak-Bakauheni Executive Terminal was constructed to offer comfort and speed for passengers and vehicles while using the crossing services.

Ship service departing from the Executive Terminal costs Rp50 thousand per adult and Rp34 thousand per child.