Vendors demand reopening of market

BOGOR: Around 100 vendors of Kebon Kembang Market demonstrated at the Bogor City Council on Thursday, demanding that the administration clean up the market's Blok E, which was razed by fire on June 14, so they could restart their businesses.

Nasir, 50, who had a stall at Blok E, said vendors needed to reopen their shops as soon as possible.

"We want the appropriate agencies to clean up the debris. We have to start our business immediately to pay for our children's education. Moreover, the new school year starts soon," he said.

Councillor Rizal Barnadi rejected the demand and recommended that the vendors wait for the results of a police investigation into the fire.

"Besides, the police will announce whether the building can still be used, as it concerns human lives," he added.

Meanwhile, councillor Lismo Handoko urged vendors not to open stalls in the alleys of the market, which would block firemen's access in the case of another fire. -- JP