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Jakarta reimposes odd-even traffic policy beginning Thursday
The policy is part of the Jakarta administration’s efforts to negotiate a fine balance between imposing strict mobility curbs and allowing crucial economic activities to continue in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Jl. Sudirman in Central Jakarta looks deserted on March 22, 2020. The thoroughfare, which is usually jammed with heavy traffic, went quiet after authorities urged firms to order their employees to work from home to prevent the spread of the COVID-19. (JP/Riand Alfiandy)
T
he capital Jakarta will begin reimposing its odd-even traffic policy on several major thoroughfares throughout the city on Thursday, as level 4 community activity restrictions (PPKM) are extended through Aug. 16.
The policy, which restricts certain roads for vehicles with odd-numbered license plates on odd-numbered dates and vice versa, is part of the Jakarta administration’s efforts to negotiate a fine balance between imposing strict mobility curbs and allowing crucial economic activities to continue, in the midst of the COVID-19 public health emergency.
Jakarta Transportation Agency head Syafrin Liputo said the restrictions would be imposed on eight major thoroughfares in the city from Aug. 12 to 16, between 6 a.m. and 8 p.m.
“We also advise residents to refrain from nonessential travel with the exception of emergencies, and observe strict health protocols on the road,” he said on Tuesday.
The traffic restrictions will be applied on Jl. Sudirman, Jl. MH Thamrin, Jl. Medan Merdeka Barat, Jl. Majapahit, Jl. Gajah Mada, Jl. Pintu Besar Selatan, Jl. Hayam Wuruk and Jl. Gatot Subroto – all in Central and South Jakarta.
The Jakarta Police later explained that the odd-even curbs would only apply to four-wheeled vehicles and larger, with the express aim of bringing down infection numbers.
Prior to the pandemic, the odd-even policy was imposed on 25 thoroughfares across the capital from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. as a means to control traffic flow.
