100 Mikrolet Drivers Storm Central Jakarta Mayor Office

As many as 100 drivers of Mikrolet minibus 08 (Tanah Abang-Kota) once again stage a demonstration in front of Central Jakarta Mayor Office, Jalan Tanah Abang 1, Petojo Selatan Urban Village, Gambir, Thursday (7/30).

"If we pass Jalan Tanah Abang 1, our minibus will be ticketed on the spot. Moreover, it was not announced to us

In this action, hundreds of drivers blocked a Mayor Office's entrance and caused traffic congestion, because they parked haphazardly.

According to Coordinator of Mikrolet minibus 08, Jisman Simanjuntak (45), admitted the demonstration is held to protest the Transportation Department that prohibits the minibus passes Jalan Tanah Abang 1.

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"If we pass Jalan Tanah Abang 1, our minibus will be ticketed on the spot. Moreover, it was not announced to us . As a matter of fact, in 30 years ago, we were free to pass," he exclaimed.

He continued Jalan Tanah Abang 1 is crowded with passengers.

“Each employee who want to go to train station can ride our Mikrolet. Thus far, all is fine but why the officers prohibit us now?," he questioned.

Central Jakarta Mayor, Mangara Pardede disclosed the ban is in conformity with the procedure. But it can still be evaluated to accommodate public transport drivers' demand.

"Route permit lies in Transportation Department, yet it is not static and can be evaluated. We only ask them to obey the procedure. If not, we will control them," told explained.

Separately, Head of Central Jakarta Transportation Sub-Department, Henry Perez Sitorus justified dozens of Microbus minibus 08 were ticketed due to route violation.

"We do this in accordance with applicable regulation," he stressed.