Population of Tangerang regency to reach 2.6 million

The population of Tangerang regency is projected to increase by 4.5 percent from 2.5 million last year to 2.6 million in 2010.

The estimated increase was based on a number of indicators, including the rising birth rate and arrival of newcomers especially after the Idul Fitri celebration, Tangerang Civil Registration and Population Agency head Karlina.

Tangerang regency is the oldest among other cities and regencies in Banten province. The regency has been divided twice, namely Tangerang Municipality 15 years ago and South Tangerang two years ago.

When South Tangerang was still united, the total population of Tangerang regency reached 3.4 million people across 36 districts, according to 2009 population data.

Tangerang regency now has only 26 districts after seven districts, namely Ciputat, Ciputat Timur, Serpong, Serpong Utara, Pondok Aren, Pamulang and Setu with a total population of 1.2 milliion, joined South Tangerang.

Karlina disclosed that the growing population in Tangerang regency has been registered, especially through arrivals of newcomers from other cities in Sumatra and Java in search for jobs.

“The increase is dominated by newcomers,” she added.