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