'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)