Anies` Plan to Narrow Down Sudirman-Thamrin Sidewalk Criticized

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Indonesian Consumers Foundation (YLKI) chairman Tulus Abadi said that sidewalks are designed for pedestrians, not for private vehicles. Such criticism was addressed relating to Jakarta Governor Anies Baswedan’s plan to narrow down sidewalks along Jenderal Sudirman-M.H. Thamrin thoroughfares for motorcycle lane.

"This clearly deprives pedestrians of their rights," Tulus firmly stated on Saturday (11/11).

In addition, he criticized the plan proposed by Deputy Governor Sandiaga Uno to make sidewalks as business venue. Tulusexplained that the function of sidewalks is clearly stipulated in Government Regulation (PP) No. 34/ 2006, article 34 paragraph(4). It is stated that sidewalks are only designed for pedestrians.

Tulus went on by saying that Jakarta administration should increase pedestrian access. This effort will encourage people to walk and use public transportation. Furthermore, Tulus continued, public transportation system should also be improved.

"What we have, such as Transjakarta, needs to be further optimized," Tulus added.

Restriction to private vehicles, Tulus said, has to be implemented by the administration. Both motorcycles and cars need to be restricted, he added.

ADAM PRIREZA