Eid Homecoming; Save the Children Indonesia Calls for Child-friendly Rest Areas for Travelers

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Save the Children Indonesia urges the government to provide child-friendly rest areas to mitigate the potential risk of disruption of children's growth and health during the Eid homecoming period.  

Interim Chief of Advocacy, Campaign, Communication, and Media from Save the Children Indonesia, Tata Sudrajat, various reports show that the main reason for many accidents during the Eid homecoming period is driving fatigue. Uncomfortable rest areas for children caused families to forgo resting during their travel. 

"Therefore, we call for child-friendly rest area facilities, as well as friendly to pregnant women and nursing mothers. This is part of the effort to mitigate the risk of traffic accidents," Tata Sudrajat said in his written statement, on Friday, April 5, 2024.

The independent organization for the fulfillment of children's rights emphasizes that the lack of child-friendly facilities in rest areas must be taken into consideration by the government. Moreover, it should be included in the provisions of the toll road's Rest and Service Area. "Some rest areas in Java only provide playground facilities for children, but do not have other child-friendly facilities," he stated. 

In addition to child-friendly facilities, Save the Children Indonesia also stresses the need for children's supervision and protection to avoid violence and neglect. For example, through education about child safety, installing CCTV in rest areas, and installing complaint posts. 

This year, the number of travelers for Eid homecoming is expected to reach 193.6 million, an increase of more than 50 percent from the previous years. Unfortunately, the huge number of people traveling is not supported by adequate facilities that prioritize the special needs of children. Adequate and child-friendly facilities are expected to allow families to rest amid their travel while ensuring the safety and happiness of their children. 

"These facilities should consist of lactation/ breastfeeding rooms, playgrounds, clean sanitation, as well as free of smoke, exhaust, noise pollution, and other safety risks," wrote Save the Children Indonesia.

INTAN SETIAWANTY

Editor’s Choice: Transportation Ministry Expects 4,000 EVs Participate in 2024 Eid Homecoming

Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News