Jabodetabek LRT Tariffs Should Be Integrated In Other Mass Transportation Modes

Photo by Redd F on Unsplash

JAKARTA - Commission V DPR RI encourages the Ministry of Transportation (Kemenhub) to tariff the integration of the Jabodetabek LRT with other public transportation modes, especially those operating in DKI Jakarta. This is because people need integrated intermodal service rates to make transportation costs more competitive.

"The government needs to maximize the benefits of the Jabodebek LRT Service with one ticket that is integrated with other public transportation modes," said Deputy Chairman of Commission V DPR RI, Andi Iwan Darmawan Aras, Thursday, August 31.

"The mode of mass transportation such as city transportation (angkot) Jaklingko, TransJakarta buses, commuter trains, and even the possibility of airport trains and the Jakarta-Bandung high-speed train must be carefully considered in its planning and implementation," he continued.

The government through the Ministry of Transportation has set the Jabodebek LRT tariff in the context of the 78th Anniversary of the Republic of Indonesia to apply a 78 percent discount which is realized in a flat tariff of IDR 5,000 for all service routes, since it was inaugurated last Monday (28/8) until the end of September.

In order to encourage public interest in switching to using mass transportation and to introduce the Jabodebek LRT, the Ministry of Transportation has also prepared a promo tariff scheme of a maximum of IDR 20 thousand for the furthest distance until the end of February 2024. Meanwhile, in addition to the furthest distance, the tariff scheme is prepared below IDR 20 thousand.

The Jabodebek LRT tariff has been determined through the Decree of the Minister of Transportation of the Republic of Indonesia Number KM 67 of 2023 concerning the Transportation Tariff of People on Integrated Light Trains in the Jakarta, Bogor, Depok, and Bekasi Regions to Implement Public Service Obligations.

Iwan Aras said the launch of the new Jabodebek LRT Service was a monumental step towards a better urban transportation transformation. The leadership of the Commission in the DPR in charge of transportation affairs also supports promotional steps taken by the Government to attract public attention.

"With good cooperation between the Government, LRT operators, and the community, we can achieve a brighter and smoother mobility future in the Jabodebek area," he explained.

Even so, Iwan emphasized the importance of integrating the Jabodetabek LRT with other modes of transportation that must be carefully considered. This is necessary in order to create an efficient, sustainable, and fulfillment transportation system that meets the needs of the community.

"We propose a recommendation that an integrated ticket system should be a priority. With single tickets that can be used in various modes of transportation, it will be easier for people to switch from one mode to another without obstacles," said Iwan.

According to the legislator from the South Sulawesi II electoral district, an integrated mass transportation network will reduce the need to use private vehicles. In the end, said Iwan, this will help reduce congestion in Jakarta and become one of the solutions to overcome air pollution caused by motorized vehicle smoke.

"Unintegrated transportation mode service rates will make people reluctant to switch from private vehicles to public transportation. This is because transportation service rates that have not been integrated or are still separated make the burden of transportation costs borne by the community even heavier," he explained.

If the cost of traveling by public transportation is comfortable and affordable, continued Iwan, it is believed that people will switch to using public transportation rather than private vehicles. The number of motorized vehicles in Jakarta itself has reached 23.03 million units as of August 17, 2023. This number is the second largest in Indonesia after East Java.

"People prefer simple things and are considered to be able to save their economy, such as using motorbikes for activities," said Iwan.

"If there is an integrated mode of transportation service and the comparison costs cheaper than using a motorbike, it will definitely change people's perceptions," he added.

On the other hand, Iwan also highlighted the importance of the operator prioritizing the safety and comfort of passengers which must be monitored and improved continuously. Given that since full operation, the Jabodetabek LRT has experienced several disturbances that have caused a buildup of passengers.

"It is important to carry out a thorough evaluation of the problem of interference with the LRT. Because it is not only beneficial for parties involved in operations, but also for the community as users of this service," said Iwan.

"By understanding the causes of the problem and identifying areas that need to be repaired, preventive measures can be taken to ensure the LRT service runs as well as possible," he continued.

Although there are still a few obstacles, Iwan appreciates the Government's steps to receive any input and criticism from the public about the operation of the Jabodetabek LRT. By learning from mistakes and making the right improvements, according to him, the goal of developing a modern transportation system that is more efficient, comfortable, and sustainable can be realized.

"Every complaint or complaint from the public must be accepted as valuable input for future improvements and improvements. I hope that in the process, the LRT will become more than just a means of mobility but an effort to mitigate climate change and maintain a cleaner and healthier environment," concluded Iwan Aras.