Indonesian President Joko Widodo took a significant step towards addressing Greater Jakarta's chronic traffic congestion and air pollution as he inaugurated the $2.13 bn elevated rail project on August 28. The newly launched Light Rail Transit (LRT) system, stretching over 41.2 km (25.6 miles), aims to provide a sustainable solution to the capital's ever-growing mobility challenges.
This driverless LRT system is designed to connect central Jakarta with its neighboring cities in West Java, including Bekasi and Depok. The launch of the project comes as welcome news to the residents of Greater Jakarta, who have long grappled with the consequences of excessive road traffic and deteriorating air quality. The project is expected to significantly reduce both road congestion and pollution, offering a more efficient and eco-friendly mode of transportation.
Currently, Greater Jakarta heavily relies on the 418 km (260 mile) Commuter Line, which serves a staggering 1.2 mn passengers daily. The inauguration of the LRT system is set to alleviate the strain on the existing public transportation network, offering a more diverse set of options for commuters.
The move to implement the LRT system comes as Jakarta has consistently ranked among the world's most polluted cities, as highlighted by Swiss air quality technology company IQAir. The president, acknowledging the severity of the pollution problem, attributed it to a combination of heavy road traffic and coal-dependent industries. He underscored the alarming statistic that nearly 1 mn vehicles enter Jakarta's roads every single day.
President Widodo emphasized;
"Jakarta is always on the top 10 list of cities with the worst traffic jams. Traffic jams and pollution always exist in Jakarta."
This new LRT system is a crucial stride towards addressing these pressing issues, offering a sustainable transportation solution that could potentially revolutionize mobility in the region.
Jakarta's public transportation system already includes a 16 km underground mass rapid transport (MRT) line, connecting the city's southern areas to the downtown core. The addition of the LRT system further diversifies the transportation options available to Jakarta's residents and visitors.
Furthermore, Indonesia's forward-looking approach extends beyond mere transportation improvements. The government has embarked on an ambitious project to build a new city, Nusantara, on Borneo island. This initiative aims to alleviate the congestion and challenges faced by Jakarta as the capital of Southeast Asia's largest economy. While there is no specified completion timeframe for the Nusantara project, it is an integral part of President Widodo's legacy as he prepares to conclude his term in office next year.
As the LRT system becomes operational and the vision for Nusantara takes shape, Indonesia is positioning itself for a more sustainable and efficient urban future. The hope is that these efforts will not only alleviate traffic congestion and pollution but also foster a higher quality of life for its citizens and set an example for sustainable urban development globally.
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