Jl. Pasar Senen

Jl. Pasar Senen

From Neraca

Mornings, afternoons, evenings and nights, Jl. Pasar Senen from Wayang Orang Bharata to Pasar Senen is jammed causing a lot of stress among road users, especially private vehicle drivers.

I made several observations last week and found that congestion was caused by undisciplined public transportation drivers of Mikrolets, Metrominis, PPD and Mayasari city buses.

These drivers stop anywhere they please to pick up passengers. They steer their vehicle at any angle to approach prospective clients. Traffic wardens are often incapable of handling the situation. They would rather leave the trouble spots unattended.

Sidewalk traders create an additional headache. They often display their goods at busy intersections, making the street narrower for traffic.

This situation exists because the guardians of traffic order have established a "spiritual bond" with the sidewalk traders and the city transportation drivers.

It is said that each trader contributes between Rp 3,000 and Rp 5,000 each day to those in charge of security and cleanliness, while drivers grease the palms of those in charge of traffic order.

The reality shows there is collusion between traders and drivers on the one hand, and law enforcers on the other. This shameful act also affects the public, especially when the traffic comes to a complete halt.

I appeal to Jakarta's governor and his agencies to immediately take steps to overcome this deplorable situation. If the problem is not solved soon, it will get worse.

KUSHARSOYO

Jakarta