Traffic congestion protested

TANGERANG: People have complained about traffic congestion on Jl. MH Thamrin in Kebon Nanas, Tangerang, before the Jakarta- Tangerang tollgate.

The Tangerang traffic police chief, Insp. Sudarmanto, said that the congestion was caused by the narrowing street and pedestrians crossing the street. He said it was urgent that a pedestrian bridge be built.

But the Tangerang municipal administration plans to build a Rp 2.6 billion (US$297,800) bridge next month in front of the Mahkota Mas shopping mall, which is one kilometer from the congested area.

"We can't build a bridge in Kebon Nanas because the residents won't give up their land," said Nana Trisyana, head of the local Bina Marga office, which is responsible for road construction.

Some days the congestion reaches up to three kilometers, especially during peak hours.

"It's unbelievable, many high-ranking officials, councillors, businessmen, journalists and even expatriates pass the street every day. They have complained but the administration does nothing," groaned a public minivan driver on Saturday. -- JP