'Bemo' to be replaced with minivans on 20 routes

'Bemo' to be replaced with minivans on 20 routes

JAKARTA (JP): The municipality has licensed 60 minivans to
replace the three-wheeled 'bemo' vehicles on 20 routes later this
month.

Samosir, a member of the team handling the replacement of
three-wheeled public transport, said yesterday that the 60
minivans have been licensed by the Land Transport and Traffic
Agency.

Samosir, who also represents the city branch of the
association of public transport owners, Organda, said the
vehicles have also received business permits and roadworthy
documents.

The replacement of 'bemo' on 20 routes is part of a trial
program to phase-out all the 'bemo' in the city.

Of the approximately 1,000 'bemos' in the city, owners of 370
vehicles have so far joined the city's program, acquiring
minivans through low-interest loans.

The city has issued 625 permits for 'bemo' replacement
vehicles.

The plan to replace the 'bemo' was initially met by anger when
the 'bemo' owners were told they would only get Rp 500,000 in
compensation.

Finally the city agreed to provide low-interest loans to the
owners to buy minivans. The down payment was reduced to Rp 2.5
million (US$1,086) from Rp 5 million.

The minivans are from Suzuki, Mitsubishi and Daihatsu. (yns)