'Bajaj replacement is a relieve'

The city administration will issue permits for Kancil to operate in the capital as an alternative to Indian-made Bajaj (motorized pedicabs), which have been a form of public transportation here since the 1970s. The initial step -- to make redundant 14,000 Bajaj -- makes some residents concerned over the fate of the Bajaj drivers. They share their views with The Jakarta Post.

Dian, 32, is an employee of a non governmental organization in Salemba, Central Jakarta. She lives in Kayu Jati, East Jakarta, with her husband and daughter:

I agree with the idea. As a customer, I would like to travel in more comfort. But in a vehicle like Bajaj, which can easily maneuver the streets.

Bajaj are practical but so noisy. They need to be replaced because I doubt they are roadworthy.

Besides, the administration should have made a study of the implications of the new system, including the fate of the drivers.

Dona, 32, is a teacher at a private elementary school in Kelapa Gading, North Jakarta. She lives in Serdang Baru, Central Jakarta, with her family:

I always use Bajaj to go to work. They are quick and easily negotiate small streets.

In a way, I hate the experience because the drivers tend to be careless. Only God (and the driver) knows where the vehicle will go.

The idea to replace Bajaj is a relief. I hope I will have a more relaxing journey in a Kancil. But I wonder if I will have to share Kancil with other passengers.

I feel sorry for Bajaj drivers. They will lose their jobs. I really don't like Sutiyoso, he doesn't care about people with low incomes.

Sony, 33, is an employee of a private company in Central Jakarta. He lives on Jl. Sultan Iskandar Muda, South Jakarta.

I welcome the launching of Kancil. As a regular customer, I would like more comfortable transportation. But, what about the fare? Will the drivers charge much more than Bajaj drivers?

Bajaj have been pretty good all things considered, because they are so mobile.

What will happen to the thousands of Bajaj drivers once their vehicles are taken off the streets?

This will certainly trigger new social problems.

-- Leo Wahyudi S.