'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