Jakarta Legislative Council (DPRD) Commission B Legislator, Gilbert Simanjuntak proposed quick steps to improve air quality in Jakarta.

According to him, restrictions on private vehicles needed to be implemented, thus air quality could be improved. It is because vehicle exhaust emissions are a big contributor to air pollution.

"If it is not restricted, the use of vehicles with fuel will certainly increase air pollution in Jakarta in the coming years. Vehicles with fossil fuels must be limited and directed to use energy sources based on batteries or electricity," he expressed, Monday (8/14).

He explained the government must provide facilities and incentives for users of electric vehicles, thus people quickly switch to using electric vehicles.

"No less important is to immediately increase the SPKLU, including in offices or vehicle parking locations," he explained.

He went on to say that efforts to improve air quality need to be synergized with optimizing public transportation services. Hence, expanding the route to accelerating the completion of LRT and MRT mass transportation modes should be the focus of attention.

"I also hope that the LRT Jabodebek can be operated soon, thus commuters from areas around Jakarta can use this public transportation. Hopefully, the tariff won't be too expensive in order to attract people," he hoped.

He added outreach and education to use public transportation and switch to electric vehicles needs to be intensified.

Then the Jakarta Provincial Government together with related agencies should carry out massive vehicle emission tests. For vehicles that do not pass the emission test must be given strict sanctions.

"Poor air quality can cause health problems. Then, congestion that occurs can cause economic losses," he stated.