Protest at DPR: Traffic remains normal with situational diversions

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Traffic Directorate of Polda Metro Jaya has confirmed that traffic flow in Jakarta remains generally normal and that road diversions will be implemented situationally ahead of a planned protest at the DPR/MPR building and surrounding areas on Thursday (27/8).

“Currently and through tomorrow, Jakarta is in a safe and conducive condition, including traffic flow which remains generally normal. Traffic management and diversions will be carried out situationally according to developments on the ground,” said Traffic Director of Polda Metro Jaya, Senior Commissioner Firman Darmansyah, when contacted in Jakarta on Wednesday.

Firman stated that the capital is guaranteed to be safe and conducive until Thursday (27/8). Therefore, a permanent traffic diversion scheme has not been imposed from the outset.

Regarding anticipation of potential congestion around Jalan Gatot Subroto and the DPR RI area, police have asked road users and the wider public to respond wisely to developments on the ground.

Firman urged the public not to be easily provoked by circulating rumours and to always verify the truth of any information before spreading it on social media.

“The public is urged to remain calm, not to be easily provoked, and to verify the truth of information before sharing it,” said Firman.

Polda Metro Jaya has deployed personnel at various points across Jakarta to oversee the demonstration scheduled for Thursday (27/8).

Police are coordinating with the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government, and internal security officers at various locations, including the DPR and agencies in the area from the Hotel Indonesia Roundabout towards the Jakarta Presidential Palace.

“At several of these points we have also made preparations to secure the expression of public opinion,” said Head of Public Relations of Polda Metro Jaya, Police Commissioner Budi Hermanto, when met at the DPR RI building in Jakarta on Wednesday.

The personnel assigned are not only tasked with overseeing the protest but also with other security needs, so their numbers will exceed those of the demonstrators.

Nevertheless, Budi has not yet detailed the number of personnel to be deployed.

“We must clarify and explain. For example, if several thousand personnel are deployed, while the demonstrators number 500, the police personnel are not only for the 500 demonstrators, but also for traffic management and the smooth movement of other members of the public,” he said.