Drum Vendors Began to Crowd Tanah Abang

Ahead of Eid ul Fitr celebration, dozens of drum vendors began peddling their wares around Tanah Abang, Central Jakarta. They set up stalls on the sidewalk and public facilities, causing traffic congestion and chaotic.

Every morning, we conduct raid. Afterwards, vendors return to set up the stalls in afternoon

As quoted by beritajakarta.com observations, the drum vendors open around 3-7 PM. The congestion is also caused by many people buy the drum from the car, precisely on the roadside.

Muhdi, (46), one of drum vendors admitted he and other vendors violate the rules and seize the right of pedestrians. "But we had to sell drum on the sidewalk and public facilities, because we need money for Eid ul Fitr celebration," he told, Sunday (7/13).

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For approximately one week, he explained, he has managed to sell 15 out of 30 drums. Its price is quite varied, ranging from drum with a diameter of 70 centimeters worth Rp 550 thousand and 30 centimeters wroth Rp 375 thousand. However, it does not include drum foot which are sold at a price of Rp 250 thousand per foot.

"While for the bigger one, it cannot be negotiable," he stressed.

Head of Tanah Abang Sub-District, Hidayatullah said that his side keeps conducting raid against vendors who violate the rules. Even, it is conducted nearly every day yet many vendors back to trade again despite the officers have seized their wares and stalls. He assessed, the problem will be solved gradually.

"Every morning, we conduct raid. Afterwards, vendors return to set up the stalls in afternoon," he expressed.

According to Yadi Rusmayadi, Central Jakarta Satpol PP Head, vendors activity in Tanah Abang would be rampant and reach its peak ahead of Eid ul Fitr. His side also continues to monitor and raid those who have violated the rules.