The Class IV Bakauheni Harbormaster and Port Authority Office (KSOP) has officially issued a warning to all mariners in the waters of the Sunda Strait. This policy was implemented following the upgrade of Mount Anak Krakatau's (GAK) volcanic activity status to Level III or Alert, requiring local authorities to enhance navigation safety protocols.
Based on circular letter Number PG-KSOP.BKH.07 of 2026, the port authority emphasized an absolute ban on all types of vessels entering a 5-kilometer radius from the active crater center. This rule refers to mitigation recommendations from the Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG) to anticipate the risks of ejected volcanic material and ash exposure that threaten maritime safety.
This strict prohibition applies not only to commercial ships, but also includes traditional fishing boats and tourism operators around the Sebesi and Sebuku Islands regions. Captains are urged to continuously monitor the direction of volcanic ash dispersal and the latest weather conditions before determining sea routes to avoid potential navigational hazards.
Meanwhile, the Head of Class IV Bakauheni KSOP, Suratno, emphasized that the main commercial crossing route between Bakauheni Port and Merak remains declared safe so far. A total of 28 ships continue to operate normally serving passengers across seven docks, under strict supervision through intensive coordination with PVMBG and BMKG.
As a proactive anticipatory measure, captains have been instructed to immediately perform evasive maneuvers if signs of danger are spotted on-site. Every crew member must report emergency situations to the Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) or the nearest harbormaster so that mitigation measures can be taken quickly and accurately.
