The Jakarta Post
Severe traffic congestion has prompted the government to improve urban mobility in Greater Jakarta by encouraging more people to switch from private vehicles to mass transit. But the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak is undeniably hindering this agenda, with demand for public transit slumping in recent months as a result of social distancing and fears of contagion. Yet, despite the unforeseen impacts, the authorities are sticking with their plan to increase ridership by 2029. Transportation Minister Budi Karya Sumadi is aware that fear of contagion has discouraged people from public transit. "Therefore, the government is trying hard to restore [the demand for public transit] by ensuring the availability of various modes of transportation and enforcing health protocols at departure, during travel and upon arrival," Budi said in a public discussion on Wednesday. The health...