Addressing the Tricky and Easy Problem: Traffic Congestion in Jakarta

Introduction

Living in a bustling metropolis like Jakarta, I've come to realize that even the simplest problems can become monumental challenges for our government to solve.

The Urban Traffic Conundrum

As an Indonesian living in Jakarta, traffic congestion is a daily nightmare. Despite being a third-world city, Jakarta is grappling with problems that are often considered simple to address in other parts of the world. This article will explore what seems like an easy problem—curbing traffic—to highlight the inefficiencies and challenges in our current policies.

Common Solutions and Their Drawbacks

Several solutions have been proposed and implemented to tackle Jakarta's traffic issues. However, each one has its own set of challenges:

Increasing Vehicle Taxes

The first proposed solution is to increase taxes on vehicles. While this approach aims to deter the purchase of new cars, it faces strong opposition from the automotive industry. Additionally, raising taxes on a basic necessity like a car is heavily debated, as it could disproportionately burden lower and middle-income families.

Restricting Driving License Exams

Another suggested measure is to make driving tests more difficult, with the intention of reducing the number of new drivers on the road. However, this solution does not address the root cause of the problem and could even make it more challenging for individuals to obtain their licenses.

Odd and Even Plate Number Restrictions

The most commonly applied policy is the odd and even plate number restriction. This system requires drivers to alternate their vehicle usage based on the last digit of their license plate. While it seems effective, it is easily circumvented, such as by renting a second vehicle or using public transportation during the restricted days.

Limiting the Issuance of Licenses for Second-Hand Vehicles

The most effective solution, in my view, would be to limit the issuance of licenses for second-hand or aged vehicles that have already exceeded five years or second-hand vehicles. This policy would significantly reduce the number of cars on the roads, as many middle-class families in Indonesia tend to purchase second-hand cars to save money. Additionally, many families who already own cars might decide to buy another car out of prestige rather than necessity, driving up the total number of vehicles on the roads.

Why the Current Policy Is Ineffective

Despite numerous proposals, the current strategy of implementing odd and even plate number restrictions has proven to be ineffective. This policy has not only failed to reduce congestion but also caused inconvenience and discontent among residents. Moreover, it has been met with skepticism due to its ease of circumvention and lack of long-term impact. The burden of solving traffic congestion, therefore, lies not just on the government but also on individuals who must be willing to embrace sustainable transportation alternatives.

Conclusion and Future Recommendations

While traffic congestion is a complex issue with no simple solution, the key is to focus on long-term strategies that do not solely rely on temporary measures. Limiting the issuance of licenses for second-hand vehicles over five years old is a practical and sustainable approach that aligns with both environmental and economic goals. The Indonesian government should consider implementing and enforcing this policy to tackle the root cause of our city's traffic woes. By doing so, we can move towards a more efficient and sustainable urban landscape.