PDAM loses dissatisfied subscribers

No less than 2,066 consumers of the Tangerang regency-run tap water operator Tirta Kerta Rahardja (PDAM TKR) canceled their subscription on Thursday and moved to Tangerang municipality's water operator Tirta Dharma.

Residents of Banjar Wijaya housing complex, Cipondoh district of Tangerang municipality, had repeatedly complained about the poor service provided by PDAM TKR, including the poor water quality and regular price hikes.

The consumers had earlier filed a request with Mayor Wahidin Halim to transfer their subscription to Tirta Dharma which they said offered lower prices and better water quality in comparison to PDAM TKR.

Tirta Dharma spokesman Indrawawan said the Mayor had approved the request and the process of handing over the subscription of the 2,066 consumers began on Thursday.

Commenting on the move, PDAM TKR president director Utar Sutarya said the company still had many loyal consumers.

"We haven't lost anything ... consumers always expect perfect service," he said, adding that the company was now waiting for compensation from the municipal administration.

But councillor Anugrah of the Justice Party faction said that the Regency Council had repeatedly urged PDAM TKR to improve its management and service, especially the quality of the water.

"This should be a lesson for PDAM TKR, (to improve their service) otherwise more customers will opt to use the service provided by Tirta Dharma."

As of December 2003, PDAM TKR customers had reached 124,742 and are expected to increase to up to 151,244 in 2004.--JP