Motorists told to get cars tested

The Jakarta Post, Jakarta

Car and motorcycle owners have six months to take their vehicles in for an emission test, as required under Bylaw No. 2/2005 on air pollution control, or face the possibility of being unable to renew their vehicle's registration.

Previously, only cargo trucks and public transportation vehicles, which account for fewer than 10 percent of the four million vehicles in the city, were required to undergo emission tests.

"Private vehicle owners can no longer avoid such tests," Kosasih Wirahadikusumah, the head of the City Environment Management Body, said on the sidelines of a clean emissions campaign event.

He said that under the bylaw, owners of two and four-wheel vehicles must take their vehicles in for emission tests and keep the vehicles roadworthy in order to renew their registration documents.

Kosasih has proposed a budget of Rp 10 billion to enforce the bylaw, which is scheduled to take effect in January 2006.

"We are now waiting for word on the proposal. We will know by September whether we have a red light or a green light," he said.

Speaking at the same event, Bambang Tribudiman, the chairman of the Clean Emission Appreciation Program, said motorists should pay attention to two important aspects when they visit a garage to get their vehicles tested.

"The garage must have certified mechanics who are authorized to perform the emission test and they should have the digital equipment necessary to run the test," Bambang said.

He said motorists who were registered as members of the Clean Emission Appreciation Program would be able to get their vehicles tested for free.

"For example, since the Blue Bird Group taxi company joined our team today, they are entitled to get free emission tests," said Bambang.

A mechanic at the event said motorists normally would have to pay about Rp 100,000 for an emission test at a certified garage.

Bambang said vehicles were allowed a maximum carbon monoxide level of 4.5 percent and a hydrocarbon level of 1,200 parts per million.

Kosasih said motorists could face up to six months in prison or a Rp 50 million fine for violating emission standards. (004)