KDM to Evaluate Old City Transport and Reopen Husein Airport
The West Java Provincial Government will soon evaluate the operation of city transport (angkot) deemed no longer roadworthy. The initiative focuses on inter-city and inter-regency routes still using ageing fleets that fail to meet public service standards.
West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi stated that the provincial government is not merely carrying out enforcement but is also providing concrete solutions. The plan is to drive a transformation in governance by empowering drivers to become fleet owners through favourable financing schemes.
In line with an environmentally friendly vision, the governor also proposed that the rejuvenation of the city transport fleet be dominated by electric vehicles (EVs). This aims to reduce reliance on conventional fossil-fuel-powered transport. He made the remarks during a recent visit to Bandung, West Java.
“We want drivers to become vehicle owners. The government is devising a financing scheme with no down payment so that their welfare improves. If a driver acts as the owner who pays instalments and maintains the vehicle, they will be far more disciplined than if they merely pay a daily rental fee,” KDM stated in a written release on Monday.
He further stressed that the success of a mass transit system depends not only on the quality of the fleet but also on a shift in public culture and improvements to urban infrastructure. A modern transport ecosystem, he argued, must be supported by pedestrian-friendly pavements, adequate street lighting, proper waste management, clean public facilities, and an integrated security system capable of keeping pace with high mobility.
“Modern transport is not just about good vehicles; public behaviour must also change, and city services must be modernised,” he said.
Beyond land transport, KDM also delivered positive news for the aviation sector. Starting in August, Husein Sastranegara Airport in Bandung is scheduled to resume operations, serving a number of domestic flights to various regions across Indonesia.
The West Java Provincial Government is also committed to pushing for the reactivation of international flight routes to and from the airport. In light of this plan, the governor has requested that the Bandung City Government continue improving the quality of public services to support the optimal growth of the tourism and local economic sectors.
Regarding the division of roles with the West Java International Airport (BIJB) Kertajati in Majalengka Regency, KDM confirmed that intensive coordination with the central government is ongoing. He stressed that Kertajati Airport will remain the backbone for pilgrimage flights.
“To avoid any misperception, Hajj and Umrah flight activities will continue to use Kertajati Airport,” KDM concluded.