T

he Public Order Agency removed dozens of shops along Jl. Tentara Pelajar in front of Palmerah Station in Central Jakarta on Wednesday to normalize sidewalks and sewers.

Some of the shops'€™ tenants had emptied their premises, while others were still negotiating with officials.

Gelora district head Ferry A.K. said he had sent a warning letter in January but the neighborhood unit heads had requested a postponement.

'€œThe public met us on Saturday regarding the planned eviction. They agreed to empty their spaces or move their stalls [from the sidewalks] over a period of two days,'€ he said.

Adi, a vendor who has been running his perfume shop for two years in the area, said he had removed his stalls according to the instructions.

Meanwhile, Deni Marpaung, an owner of several rented shops, including restaurants, travel agencies and printing businesses, requested more time.

'€œI would abide by the administration'€™s plan but need tolerance from them to dismantle the shops ourselves,'€ he said.