Traffic in Bogor

Traffic in Bogor

During my 15 months of residence in this wonderful land I
really thought I had seen it all! That was, of course, until last
week when I experienced, with disbelief, major changes occurring
in Bogor due to the commencement of the APEC meetings at the
Bogor Palace.

During the build-up to these meetings the town of Bogor has
undergone many improvements including long awaited road repairs,
curb painting, tree and plant displays being strategically
erected and the prevalence of many active policemen. However, the
chaos of the one way system around the town still remains.

No matter which route you take, for whatever reason, roads are
at a virtual standstill. Buses cannot gain access to their normal
routes and now have to take the minor roads. Under normal
circumstances, these small roads can cope with single file
traffic but now, loaded trucks are also having to do the same.
Indonesian drivers with impatient temperaments and questionable
driving skills are now at their absolute worst! Not only must
this be having a tremendous effect on many local businesses but
schools have also been affected. In an emergency there would be
little hope of gaining quick access to a hospital.

One can only assume that these road closures have been
enforced in order that the officials and foreign visitors to the
APEC meetings do not have to suffer the perilous driving
conditions and experience the appalling driving ethics, or the
interminable delays, that are already prevalent.

MELANIE J. GEE

Bogor, West Java