TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Car Free Day which is a routine weekly activity in Jakarta will be dispensed on Sunday because its implementation coincides with the celebration of Indonesia's 67th Independence Day, as reported by Antara News.

"There will be no Car Free Day on August 17," said a Policeman, Aiptu Edi Nurdianto on Sunday.

The policy was taken in order to honor the ceremony of Independence Day that is usually held at Presidential Palace. Moreover, a number of officials and state guests will attend the activity.

"To smoothen the ceremony, Jalan Sudirman-MH Thamrin will be closed and used as a passing lane for forces, ceremony participants, and invited guests," he expressed.

He added today is the first day of the enactment of the Car Free Day after Eid al Fitr holidays, and Jakarta people looked very enthusiastic. "This is the first week after Eid al Fitr, we held Car Free Day and was very crowded," he exclaimed.

Car Free Day took place from 6 AM to 11 AM. The entire private vehicles are prohibited from passing on Jalan Sudirman-MH Thamrin, except Transjakarta bus. This program is held to reduce air pollution caused by vehicles' emissions and it refers to the Bylaw No. 2/2005 on Control of Air Pollution.

ANTARA