REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, KARANGASEM -- Minister of Tourism Arief Yahya ensured Bali Island is safe for tourist activities. Yesterday, he even already visited Pura Besakih, which is only 9 kilometres away from the active volcano Mount Agung.

Nevertheless, the Ministry of Tourism has created scenarios to safeguard all tourists in Bali. Arief said in the next few days, if Mount Agung is erupting, both domestic and foreign tourists will be advised to move their leisure activities from Bali to Lombok. 

"If this month winds blow to west, we have to redirect tourists in Bali to the east, to Lombok," said Yahya in a written statement received by Republika.co.id, Friday (October 6).

Yahya said the tourists will be evacuated by ferry boats. "If the number of the tourists is about 60,000, there will be four or five large ferries which can carry up to 5,000 passangers. It will be available to transfer them to Lombok," Yahya explained.

Meanwhile, Yahya also coordinated with Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association and tourism industry to provide special discount for tourists who were forced to stay longer because the temporary closure of Ngurah Rai International airport.

"For the day one of eruption, hotels will be available for free or 80 percent discount," he said.

Yahya also urged airport, harbor, hotels and evacuation camps to prepare entertainment for tourists during their stay in Lombok. "Let's make them feel comfortable," he remarked.    

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