Demolition and paving of sidewalks

Demolition and paving of sidewalks

From Merdeka

I am among the people who understand that each government agency has its plan and budget. Therefore, I was not surprised when I saw a recently paved sidewalk -- of course, after it had been dug previously -- torn down again by another agency.

However, when excesses occur, it is hard to accept the situation. I think the construction of the median on Jl. Raya Bogor is one example of such excesses.

Imagine, the median had just been finished when -- egad! -- it was taken apart for the installation of street lighting cables. It was far too much! It was not only a waste of budget, but it also caused traffic congestion, which would not have taken place if the construction of the median and the installation of street lamps had been done at the same time.

Another example is the installation of fences between the river and the highway on Jl. Daan Mogot in West Jakarta. Although the work had just been completed, the fences were removed for a river dredging project.

The government agencies have their plans. They should understand that the people also have their plans, for which an efficient use of time is necessary. The intentional creation of traffic congestion is, in my opinion, tantamount to an act of crime, because it brings about losses to other people.

CHANDRA PRATAMA PUTRA

Jakarta