The governor of Jakarta, Heru Budi Hartono, and Bali Governor, Wayan Koster, met to discuss the problem of traffic congestion in Bali. The governor’s goal was to develop rail-based public transit in Bali, including MRT and LRT.
“Traffic congestion is one of Bali’s major issues, particularly in Badung and Denpasar. That is why we are looking at alternative modes of transport, one of which is rail-based public transportation,” said Koster in Jakarta City Hall on Monday, the 10th of July, 2023.
Heru Budi claimed that the Jakartan administration is inclined to assist Bali in developing MRT and LRT. A contract about the growth of regional potential and public service between Jakarta and Bali was signed by Heru and Koster. “This has been going on since Jokowi’s presidency. Bali’s surroundings can be different, but I think our cycles are the same,” Heru added.
Heru claims that early on in its evolution, MRT encountered opposition and debates. However, MRT is well-liked at the moment. “Development is simpler today; the MRT and LRT are ready examples, so pick the one that works for Bali,” he continued.
Heru gives Bali all control over the decision about the LRT ticket cost. He claims that Wayan Koster has a better grasp of the locals than he does. “Populace transit in Jakarta is designed to serve the general populace, but Bali must also consider visitors. The cost of the tickets needs to be reasonable,” added Heru.
“LRT ticket price determination will be simpler than in Jakarta,” Heru continued.
Meanwhile, Wayan Koster stated that Bali should learn from Jakarta to tackle traffic congestion concerns, which would be applied with certain modifications to meet the situation in Bali.
Koster expressed gratitude to Jakarta Acting Governor Heru Budi Hartono for the partnership “with the support of Bapak Bappenas Minister (Suharso Monoarfa) and Bapak Transportation Minister (Budi Karya Sumadi),” he said at the Jakarta City Hall on Monday, the 10th of July, 2023.
“Tourist areas such as Badung and Denpasar, especially Kuta and Sanur until Ubud, are highly congested,” Governor Koster stated.
The expansion of public transit, such as this LRT is projected to make Bali a more appealing destination for both local and international visitors. According to Koster, 17 million international nationals visited the Island of the Gods in 2019 alone.
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