Jakarta Council Doubts the Effectiveness of Odd-Even Policy

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Jakarta Legislative Council (DPRD) deputy speaker, Triwisaksana, expressed his doubt over the effectiveness of the extended odd-even policy which aims to curb congestion and air pollution in the city. Triwisaksana or Sani considered the policy merely as a temporary solution.

“Yes, this is a temporary solution. It will not significantly reduce [pollution and congestion] because people can easily take other alternatives as long as the public transportation yet to be improved,” said Sani to Antara, Wednesday, August 7.

However, Sani stressed that the implementation of the traffic system is necessary considering the city’s severe congestion and worst air pollution.

The councilor then demanded Jakarta provincial administration pass other policies that offer permanent solutions, such as electronic road pricing (ERP). “The ERP program can affect all users of motorized vehicles, not limited to the license plate number,” Sani added.

Deputy Speaker of Jakarta Legislative Council's (DPRD) Commission E, Ramly HI Muhammad, shared the same statement. According to him, the policy is not an exact solution to alleviate traffic density and improve air quality in the capital.

Jakarta Transportation Agency earlier announced 16 new roads that will be affected by the traffic system following the issuance of a gubernatorial instruction concerning the city’s air quality control.

The socialization of the extended odd-even policy will take place from August 7 until September 8, and the trial run will be started on August 12. While the implementation will take effect starting September 9.

ANTARA