Jakarta – The government, through Home Minister Tjahjo Kumolo, has apologized for all hassles and troubles faced by people during the Idul Fitri exodus, especially related to public services.
Prolonged gridlock at the East Brebes exit, dubbed Brexit by netizens, a term borrowed from the UK's withdrawal from the EU, has reportedly resulted in a number of fatalities given the absence of supporting rest areas along the newly built toll road.
"As home minister, representing the government, I apologize to the public, especially those who have been afflicted during the exodus," Tjahjo was quoted as saying by kompas.com on Saturday. He claimed the government had done its utmost to prepare road infrastructure to ensure convenient travel. He added that the government would conduct thorough evaluation to improve its services.
Local media cited data from the Brebes Health Agency and regional disaster mitigation agency (BNPB) that at least 17 homebound travelers died in the area of Brebes, Central Java alone between June 29 and July 5. The causes of death range from fatigue to traffic accidents. (dmr)