Bring order to streets

From Kompas

Several governments have come to power following the end of the New Order in 1998, but none of their programs have included bringing order to our roads, which should be part of the present government's 100-day drive.

Order and discipline on roads reflect an adherence to the law, which will prompt foreign investors to operate in Indonesia and thus help improve the economy, while saving fuel and time.

The chaos on the roads of Jakarta has caused great losses for the state, while sidewalk vendors are allowed to take up almost half of main roads in such areas as Jatinegara, Tanah Abang and Kota.

Public transportation vehicles stop everywhere and motorcycles break all the traffic rules, disturbing the flow of traffic and endangering others.

It won't be simple to fix our traffic woes, but the new government's agenda for change should include programs to improve traffic and educate road users.

SJAHRIAL Jakarta