Pasar Minggu to remian catchment area

JAKARTA (JP): In line with regional city planning, Pasar Minggu will continue to be a water catchment area until the year 2005, said South Jakarta Mayor Pardjoko.

"People who intend to build houses in this area should understand and obey city planning in the area and the standard construction coefficient," Pardjoko said at a book launching ceremony on Saturday, the Antara news agency reported.

He said residents should apply for a planning and building license (KDB) from the South Jakarta City Planning office because the mayoralty will not hesitate to demolish buildings without proper permits.

The book, titled Pasar Minggu, the Past, Present and the Future, written by Pasar Minggu district chief Suparmo, contains guidelines in acquiring the KDB, information about Pasar Minggu and its history.

Pardjoko said the book is important for people who intend to build houses in the area.

The Pasar Minggu area was made known nation-wide in the late 1950s when the late singer Bing Slamet sang a song titled Papaya, Mangga Pisang Jambu which described Pasar Minggu as the city's largest fruit producer.

Pardjoko explained that since then development of the area has been rapid, in line with the city's development.

"Farmers who used to harvest fruit from their land, are now harvesting money from the land because they build houses and rent them," Suparmo added.

Health card

Suparmo also distributed 1,700 health cards to residents of seven sub-districts in Pasar Minggu.

Residents with the card are entitled to get free medical treatment in every community health center (Puskesmas) in the area.

Suparmo said his office is participating in the government program to eradicate poverty and since August has been helping eight families and donating Rp 50,000 (US$22.93) each to 40 families in Kebagusan and 50 families in Cilandak Timur sub districts. (yns)