Minister Wants MRT Jakarta Starts Operating Next Month

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Transportation Minister Budi Karya Sumadi is targeting for the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) Jakarta to start operating in March 2019. He said this after trying out the MRT, riding from the Hotel Indonesia station bound for Lebak Bulus.

"We hope that in early March it will be in operations. We only need certifications for two more stations. I think it should be done in a week, and then we will just have to wait," Budi said in a written statement on Thursday, February 15, 2019.

The minister added that they will make some kind of a safety committee because there are stations located underground.

Read: Public Can Try MRT Jakarta before Inauguration

"We will involve as many parties as possible and also foreign consultants who really understand the operation of the MRT," he said.

He also asked to improve the function of Transit Oriented Development or (TOD) for passengers transferring from MRT to other modes of transportation, so that people are more comfortable in using the MRT.

The minister said that the MRT tariff will be determined by the Jakarta Provincial Government with discussions with the Transportation Ministry. There will be subsidies from the Government.

Budi appreciates PT MRT for building the MRT excellently that it is ready to operate commercially to serve the public.

Muhammad Hendartyo