Many are expecting that traffic on roads affected by the trial of the odd-even traffic rule, which starts today, would be even more congested than usual.
In anticipation of this, and to provide alternative transportation to people whose vehicles are forbidden to be the roads during rush hour today as per the new rule, TransJakarta is increasing the number of buses available on the odd-even zone.
“We are increasing the TransJakarta bus armada on Corridor 1 (Blok M-Kota) which passes through the odd-even zone. Usually we have 60 buses, we’re increasing it to 80 buses,” said Jakarta Transportation Agency Head Andri Yansyah, as quoted by Warta Kota yesterday.
Andri added that the agency is certain the odd-even rule will decrease congestion by 20-30%.
However, there are many reports in the media this morning that sections of the odd-even zone are still congested. As it is an odd calendar date today, only cars with odd-numbered plates are allowed to drive on the odd-even zone. However, many vehicles with even-numbered plates are still entering the zone, with many drivers claim they weren’t aware of the new rule.
The trial period of the odd-even rule, which runs from today until August 26, is designed to raise public awareness of the rule. As such, violators would only be issued warnings during this period. The rule is set to be officially enforced on August 30, after which time offenders will be ticketed and fined Rp 500 thousand.
The trial of the odd-even rule is enforced on Jalan Sisingamaharaja, Jalan Sudirman, Jalan MH Thamrin, Jalan Medan Merdeka Barat, and parts of Jalan Gatot Subroto from 7am to 10am and 4:30pm to 8:30pm on weekdays.
