Avoiding traffic jams

In the last few months I have read a number of articles and letters on the 3-in-1 topic to find myself utterly amazed by what people have been presenting. It seems that most of them have completely missed the point of what the government is trying to accomplish.

Some talk about selling stickers at a price based on the cost of the car. This would only enhance the ability of the ones that can afford to use these roads and the problem will still remain. Some talk about getting rid of the kids for hire. This again is sidestepping the issue.

We all know it. We have a major traffic problem! The government does not want more money, all they want is what we all want: fewer cars on the streets, especially during the peak hours. This 3-in-1 scheme, or a facsimile thereof, has been used successfully by many countries in the world. It has also taken them a number of years and much educating of the public before it was accepted. Just imagine how nice traffic would be if there were a third less cars on the streets. You would also be able to take a deep breath without coughing.

Although my work starts at 7:30 in the morning, I go to the office at 6:00 a.m. thus avoiding all traffic. I arrive relaxed, I leisurely drink my tea, and I am more effective because I have time to plan for my day's work in peace and quiet. It also saves me gas money as my car does not stand idle for a long time at each stop.

What we have to do is to start either commuting at off-peak hours or sharing rides with our neighbors who work close by. This will save us money, reduce traffic, reduce tension and, just as importantly, reduce pollution. So let us truly get behind the program and share a ride. It is easy to criticize, but not so easy to comply when it involves a little less comfort and some sacrifice for mankind.

JEAN-PIERRE Z.

Jakarta