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Jakarta eyes bike-sharing service to promote eco-transit
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People walk on a sidewalk on Jl. MH Thamrin where a new bicycle lane was introduced for cyclists on Sept. 29. (JP/Syelanita)
J
akarta aims to follow in the footsteps of many cities around the world where eco-friendly mobility by means of riding a bicycle is highly encouraged through bike-sharing programs, amid the longstanding issue of air pollution and traffic congestion in the capital.
The plan came in light of the city’s first phase of expanded bike lanes in several areas. Jakarta Transportation Agency head Syafrin Liputo said companies had expressed interest in joining the movement through the bike-sharing service following the completion of the expanded lanes.
The service is expected to promote and provide access to bicycles as an alternative mode of transportation. With the bike-sharing program, people could use bicycles made available at the bicycle’s parking zones on a short-term basis.
“We are discussing it. Nine companies are interested in joining,” he told reporters at City Hall on Thursday.
Before such services began, however, the agency would have to prepare regulations to ensure the smooth implementation.
“We need to have regulations in place so providers are adequately facilitated. And the public has to be given services that meet our standards,” he said.
The agency said the service would be set up in high-demand locations, “like in stations and Transjakarta bus stops. The demand there is commonly high,” Syafrin said.
