'Bajaj' replacement still a problem, official says

The Jakarta Post , Jakarta | Wed, 12/27/2006 2:10 PM | Jakarta

The Jakarta Post, Jakarta

High prices and a lack of gas supplies are slowing down the transition from the old bajaj to the new, environmentally friendly three-wheeled taxis, the Jakarta Transportation Agency says.

The new compressed natural gas-powered bajaj cost between Rp 35 million (about US$3,225) and Rp 38 million each, twice the price of the older versions, which is putting drivers off upgrading.

A lack of CNG filling stations in the city doesn't help.

The agency had hoped to see 250 units of the new bajaj operating by the end of this year. But as of December, there are only 87 operating, agency deputy head Udar Pristono said.

""Permits for the other 163 units of the new bajaj are still in process. We hope they will be able to operate soon,"" Udar told Antara on Tuesday.

The agency is urging bajaj owners to replace their gas-guzzling taxis as soon as possible to reduce air pollution in the city.

Udar said new bajaj were cheaper to run than the conventional gas-fueled ones.

""For one kilometer, it only costs Rp 186, or nearly half of the old bajaj's costs, which reach Rp 300 a kilometer,"" he said.

CNG is currently selling at Rp 3,000 a liter while gasoline costs Rp 4,500.

Around 14,424 old bajaj continue to operate around the city.

""The owners have to give the old vehicles to the agency before they can buy the new ones,"" Udar said.

""In return, we will give them an incentive, making it easy for them to obtain a permit.""

The agency demolished 83 old bajaj in East Jakarta on Tuesday. (04)

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