Angkot Driver Protests, Banten Provincial Government Affirms Trans Banten Continues

SERANG The Banten Provincial Transportation Service ensured that the Trans Banten Bus service would continue to operate even though the wave of protests from the Palima 'Cinangka' angkot drivers continued. The head of the Banten Transportation Service, Tri Nurtopo, emphasized that it was impossible to stop the bus service because it was part of the local government's strategic policy.

Tri explained that some of the driver's demands had been followed up, including adjustments to bus operating hours. Initially, the bus operated from 06.00 to 18.00 WIB, now adjusted to 07.00 to 17.00 WIB. However, Tri admitted that there were still reports that a number of buses violated the provisions by operating until the evening.

"We will investigate it later and check again. No one should have operated after five in the afternoon," Tri said, quoted by Antara, Tuesday, October 28.

He added that the government still opened a space for dialogue with drivers, but emphasized that the termination of Trans Banten services was not a solution. If they want to be involved, I suggest establishing a cooperative or legal entity such as CV. Because if you are an individual, it is difficult to be able to participate in an integrated system, "he said.

Tri revealed that his party had conveyed to the Governor of Banten Andra Soni regarding the wishes of the drivers to meet in person. However, the decision regarding the meeting time depends on the governor's schedule.

"We appreciate their aspirations. But this program is part of efforts to improve public transportation services, so it cannot be dismissed," said Tri.

Meanwhile, the Coordinator of the Palka Angkot Community, Geri Wijaya, expressed his disappointment with the government which was deemed not to keep the promise of the results of the previous hearing. According to him, the drivers have been demonstrating since October 15 and are waiting for follow-up from the Transportation Service.

"We were promised an evaluation of the operating hours and routes of Trans Banten as well as a meeting with the Governor, but until now there has been no clarity," Geri said.

He said, since Trans Banten began operating on October 4, 2025, the driver's income has decreased drastically. "In the past, I could get Rp. 350 thousand per day, now it is at least Rp. 60 thousand to Rp. 150 thousand. That has not been deducted by deposits," he said.

Geri also accused Trans Banten buses of operating outside agreed hours. Feeling that they had not received a response, the drivers planned to apply for an audience again to the Governor of Banten.

"If there is still no response, we will come directly to the governor's pavilion with more masses," he concluded.