The Bali Regional Police organized an important one security operationdubbed “2023 Grand Candle Operation”, at Puputan Margarana Niti Mandala Renon Field in Denpasar on Thursday, December 21, 2023.
This initiative prepares for the expected influx of tourists during the celebrations of Christmas 2023 and New Year 2024.
According to authorities at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali, this is expected to be approx 1.09 million passengers travels via the airport during this festive period from December 19 to January 3. This represents an increase of 20% compared to the previous year, when the airport had approximately 909,143 passengers. The increase in the number of travelers underlines Bali’s growing popularity and the recovery of tourism activities.
Bali Police Chief Inspector General Ida Bagus Kd Putra Narendra, SIK, M.Si, acknowledged the increase in tourist arrivals and outlined measures taken to address potential disruptions. These include traffic jams, fuel shortages, basic goods, natural disasters and terrorist threats.
To specifically combat the risk of terrorism, the police have deployed various units, including those of the General Criminal Investigation Department, the Special Investigation Department, the Intelligence Service and the Gegana Wanteror unit of the Mobile Brigade.
The Bali Regional Police has been working with various agencies, with a total of 1,600 National Police and 2,700 cross-sector employees being deployed. The aim is to ensure a favorable climate for tourists in Bali and to preventively address any threats or disturbances.
In addition, to control traffic congestion, especially in areas with significant tourist activity such as Kuta and Badung, additional staff has been appointed. These officials will focus on traffic engineering and management in areas known for their narrow lanes and limited alternative routes, such as Atlas, Petitenget, Berawa and Uluwatu.
The strategy includes diverting traffic and implementing open and closed traffic systems where necessary, coupled with organizing and socializing these changes for the public.
