Busway and discipline

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