Residents Block Mining Trucks in Tangerang Over Operational Hour Violations
A number of residents intercepted mining trucks violating operational hours on Jalan Raya Legok, Tangerang Regency, Banten, on Saturday (23/5). The protest was carried out because these mining trucks frequently trigger traffic accidents and congestion in the area.
Working alongside officers from the Tangerang Regency Transportation Agency, residents stopped the passing mining trucks. Drivers found violating the regulations were ordered to turn their vehicles around and head back towards the mining areas in Parung Panjang, Bogor Regency, West Java. Additionally, drivers were required to sign a written statement promising not to operate outside the established hours again.
Residents stated that this action was the culmination of their frustration regarding the high number of mining trucks operating from morning until evening. Beyond causing congestion, the activity of these trucks is considered dangerous to other road users. According to Tangerang Regent Regulation Number 47 of 2018, the operational hours for mining trucks are regulated from 10:00 PM to 5:00 AM; however, this regulation is deemed to be poorly enforced on the ground.
One mining truck driver, Sopiyan, admitted that they continue to operate following instructions from their company. “As labourers, if the boss tells us to go, we must go. I apologise, I am just a worker. Yesterday, I saw other cars moving, so I followed suit as I have just started working here,” said Sopiyan.
A resident named Amrullah noted that violations of operational hours remain frequent and cause significant unrest within the community. “They are only permitted to pass from 10:00 PM until 5:00 AM, but many drivers still violate this. Besides causing congestion, there was recently an accident that resulted in a fatality caused by a truck collision,” said Amrullah.
The trucks intercepted by the residents were subsequently ordered to turn back towards Parung Panjang, Bogor. Residents have expressed intentions to continue these blockades if mining trucks are found operating outside the permitted timeframe.