'Too many private cars in capital'

'Too many private cars in capital'

The increasing number of private vehicles in the capital is
likely related to the poor public transportation available. The
operation of busway since early this year, which is considered a
suitable alternative for private car owners, is yet to reduce
traffic congestion in the city. Of 60,000 busway passengers per
day, only 14 percent previously drove to work. The Jakarta Post
talked to some residents about the issue.

Hardi Baktiantoro, 30, is an activist, who works to protect
endangered animals. He lives in Cilandak, South Jakarta, with his
family:

I have one car, which I prefer to drive rather than taking
public transportation, mainly due to security concerns.

When I'm on my way to work, I always carry my laptop and
camera, so security is very important.

But, I agree that there are too many private cars in Jakarta,
which has caused traffic congestion. I think the administration
should improve the quality of the existing public transportation
rather than widening the roads, for example.

The administration must also limit the age of private vehicles
in an effort to reduce the number of private cars.

Adj. Sr. Comr. Edhy Moestofa is the chief of the Jakarta
Police's tourism division. He lives with his wife and two
children in Pejaten, South Jakarta:

I usually drive my car, a Timor sedan, from home to the
office. Sometimes, I have to drive my wife to her office first.
As for my children, they walk to school as their schools are
close to our house.

The number of private cars is already too many for Jakarta. It
causes traffic congestion and pollution.

Many Jakartans seem to "need" more than just one car. I don't
know what their reasons are.

I just hope the construction of the monorail is completed
soon, because we need safe and comfortable public transportation.

-- The Jakarta Post