From Tracks to Decent Housing

Swift action has been taken by Prabowo Subianto after directly observing the conditions of residents living along the railway tracks in the Senen area, Central Jakarta. The field visit conducted the previous day immediately resulted in instructions to build more decent housing for the affected residents.

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya stated that the directive goes beyond mere discussion. The President promptly contacted several relevant officials to ensure the handling process proceeds quickly.

“President Prabowo directly ordered the Minister of Housing via telephone—while in Toba, represented by the Secretary General—the Minister of Public Works, the Director of Perumnas, KAI (Kereta Api Indonesia), and several related officials to build housing for residents still living along the railway tracks,” said Teddy in a written statement on Friday (27/3).

The instruction was immediately responded to on the ground. The government has begun preparing the construction of new housing located not far from the residents’ current dwellings.

“Today, the team has already moved to prepare the process of building new housing located not far from their original residential area,” he continued.

This decision was made after Prabowo heard directly from the residents who have lived for years in cramped environments with limited facilities. Many of them have settled for decades along the tracks with minimal housing conditions.

“According to the residents’ accounts, they have lived for decades along the tracks with limited housing and roofing. And the President wants these residents to be provided with decent living spaces and sanitation facilities as soon as possible,” explained Teddy.

The relocation plan is not merely about moving the residents but also considers social and economic aspects. The government aims to keep residents close to their environment and sources of livelihood.