In a bid to address the persistent challenges of traffic congestion and deteriorating air quality in Jakarta, Indonesian President Joko Widodo inaugurated the city’s first-ever sky train on August 28. The launch of this innovative solution is hailed as a significant step towards alleviating the chronic traffic issues that have plagued Jakarta and contributed to its escalating air pollution problem. The sky train project, valued at $2.13 million, aims to usher in transformative changes for the bustling capital.
The newly unveiled sky train system encompasses an unmanned Light Rail Transit (LRT) that spans an impressive 41.2 kilometers, serving as a vital transportation link between Jakarta and its sprawling metropolitan expanse. This expansive network extends its reach to include the neighboring city of Bekasi and Depok in West Java province.
Prior to the introduction of the sky train, residents of Jakarta and the surrounding areas primarily relied on the commuter train service (Commuter Line), an extensive rail system that stretches across 418 kilometers and accommodates a staggering 1.2 million daily passengers.
Notably, Jakarta’s battle against air pollution has been both prolonged and pronounced. The city has consistently ranked among the world’s most polluted urban centers since May, gaining notoriety for its air quality woes. A recent ranking published by IQAir, a quality technology firm based in Switzerland, designated Jakarta as the world’s most polluted city, emphasizing the urgency of addressing its environmental challenges.
President Widodo, speaking on the launch of the sky train, drew attention to the contributing factors behind Jakarta’s pollution crisis. He highlighted the overburdened road infrastructure and the coal industry’s influence as key drivers of pollution. Each day, the city witnesses nearly one million vehicles entering its limits, underscoring the scale of the challenge.
The inauguration of the sky train marks a pivotal moment in Jakarta’s ongoing efforts to reimagine its urban transportation landscape. As commuters and residents welcome this innovative addition, the sky train holds the promise of not only easing traffic congestion but also curbing the pollution that has marred the city’s reputation. This development aligns with broader aspirations for sustainable urban development, emphasizing the need to strike a balance between modernization and environmental well-being. As the sky train becomes a pivotal feature of Jakarta’s urban fabric, its impact on the city’s congestion and pollution challenges will be closely observed, with potential implications for other metropolitan areas facing similar urban dilemmas.