Traditional market sellers

Traditional market sellers

From Kompas

I wonder if the commitment to protect traditional market sellers from the rapid growth of supermalls in Jakarta, is being honored. It seems that it was a lightly made promise, no more.

The Pondok Indah market in South Jakarta, for instance, is a dying market.

The market's location is not convenient as it sprawls inwards from Jl. Ciputat Raya, the main road, which obscures it from public view. A small number of Pondok Pinang and Tanah Kusir residents living closest to the area are its patrons.

It is unfortunate that the eastern part of Pondok Pinang will be appropriated very soon. Already, signs of bankruptcy are obvious in the form of empty kiosks scattered here and there.

The market is actually very orderly and a garbage disposal system is already in place. Its weak side is its non-strategic location.

The market's activity can be revived by redirecting public transport from Kebayoran Lama to Lebak Bulus, on routes KWK S03, Metro Mini S 611 and Roda Niaga. Instead of crossing the road some distance from the market, it would be better if vehicles were allowed to cross the road that divides the market.

In this way it is hoped the market will be more visible to bus passengers and they will be encouraged to stop and buy their daily necessities.

The suggested bus route would also increase market accessibility to present customers. I hope the respective authorities will pay attention to this matter.

KHAIRUL FAHMI

Jakarta