Public transport

Public transport

From Kompas

The most heated issue concerning the public transport sector is the closed door regulation for public vehicles -- buses, Metrominis etc.

As a regular commuter, I consider this traffic policy unethical. Public buses are not conditioned for this. By closing the doors the air circulation inside the bus is restricted. This makes the bus, which is usually very crowded, very stuffy.

Indonesia can not be compared with foreign countries that have cold climate and are not quite as dusty. People in power can rigorously impose this regulation because they themselves never feel what riding on a Metromini is like. The situation gets worse when a passenger, usually female, sitting near the window prefers the windows of the bus closed to prevent them from catching cold. Smokers, to the disgust of non-smokers, don't seem at all concerned over the pollution they cause.

The regulation is applicable to PATAS AC buses (air conditioned limited passenger bus) and the New Route Bus Model (RMB). The situation will worsen when the rainy season starts. All windows, as well as the doors, of the vehicle have to be closed. How can you expect the passengers to stay alive in such condition? I am sure other passengers agree with me in this matter and I think the authorities need to reconsider the problem carefully.

ENDANG MS

Jakarta