Busway and discipline

As a frequent visitor and sometimes resident of Jakarta since 1997, I have often used public bus services, especially those plying the main thoroughfare running between Kota, West Jakarta, and Blok M, South Jakarta. The route is direct and the transportation is a fraction of the cost of taking a taxi, and often almost as quick.

I have also had a great number of pleasant experiences meeting ordinary Jakartans taking the buses. So it was with great anticipation that I looked forward to the launch of the TransJakarta Busway on Thursday, Jan. 15. Now I could zip back and forth between Kota and Blok M at yet greater speed and in greater comfort on a public transit system and not get stuck in parking lot-like traffic jams because of the special lanes dedicated to these buses.

Since I'm staying in Petojo, West Jakarta, I walked to the nearest stop in front of Carrefour on Jl. Gajah Mada with the intention of going to Glodok for computer software. I approached the ticket counter, got my free ticket and was personally welcomed by the staff, since I was probably the first foreigner to board the Busway at that station. There was a small crowd in front of the sliding doors waiting for the next bus.

When the bus came, it became immediately evident that the design is completely wrong: People enter and exit the bus through the same door.

Indonesian elevator mentality being what it is, the waiting crowd pushed and shoved to enter, not letting those inside the bus to alight first! After failing to board the first two buses because of overcrowding, someone asked me, "Hey mister, what do you think of the Busway?" I replied that we should queue on both sides of the door, leaving space for those exiting the bus, and then get on in an orderly manner. They all smiled dumbly, and continued to block the door and press up against it.

Once I finally got on a bus, we were packed like sardines in a can, such that even if someone fainted, he wouldn't fall down.

I think the Busway has the potential to alleviate some of Jakarta's traffic problems. To do this, however, it needs to provide a safe and pleasant experience with easy, orderly access for people -- if they are expected to leave their cars at home.

JOE VISSER Jakarta