Pramono opens possibility of adding free public transport beneficiary categories

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has opened the possibility of adding new beneficiary categories to the 15 groups currently eligible for free public transport in the capital. According to him, the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government continues to campaign for the utilisation of the 15 free categories to encourage people to use public transport. “It is likely we will add the categories and make them free, so that the cross-subsidy is fairer — those who cannot afford it travel for free, while those who can pay a little more,” Pramono said in South Jakarta on Thursday. He also pledged to seriously consider the Transjabodetabek fare adjustment so as not to force residents back to private transport. Furthermore, he confirmed that Transjabodetabek fares would be assessed based on distance, ensuring the adjustment does not burden the public under current conditions. “Not all Transjabodetabek fare increases will be high. As governor, I am also taking into account the public’s capacity to pay under conditions like these,” Pramono revealed. He will therefore weigh the matter carefully before deciding on the new Transjabodetabek fare amount. Even as fares are adjusted, he said the administration will continue to add fleet numbers to improve service and comfort for users. “So that the habit or behaviour of people using public transport increases, and that is what we will do,” Pramono stated.