The Batam City Council convened a plenary session on November 4, 2024, to discuss the draft regulation for Public Mass Transport aimed at improving city transportation infrastructure and services.
The meeting led by the Chairman of the Batam City Council, M. Kamaluddin, included discussions among representatives from various political parties on a new regulation designed to address the growing challenges of urban transportation in Batam.
The proposed regulation intends to enhance mass public transport systems in Batam, addressing issues such as integration with residential areas and activity centers, sustainability in transport, including fuel types and emissions, and social impacts.
Various party factions offered insights:
– NasDem emphasized the integration of public transport stops with residential and commercial areas.
– Gerindra presented six specific suggestions for improving the draft.
– PDIP highlighted the economic and time-saving benefits of a robust public transport system.
– Golkar called for comprehensive studies on implementing a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system.
PKB’s Umi Kalsum stressed the importance of security, comfort, ticket affordability, and the accessibility of transport schedules online for residents and tourists.
A coalition of PAN, Democrat, and PPP, through Safari Ramadhan, and Hanura, PSI, and PKN represented by Sony Christanto, focused on reducing traffic congestion and unauthorized parking.
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Acting Mayor of Batam, Andi Agung, acknowledged the inputs from all factions, expressing commitment to further discussions. He emphasized the need for mass transportation to cope with increasing vehicle numbers and road expansions.
The Batam DPRD’s discussion on the Public Mass Transport Bill is a crucial step towards addressing the pressing transportation challenges in the city. If passed, the legislation will facilitate the development of an efficient and integrated public transport system to alleviate traffic congestion and enhance urban mobility.
Batam’s City Council debates a vital bill aimed at revamping the public transportation system to provide efficient, sustainable urban transit solutions. This legislative move could transform the way residents and visitors navigate the city, aiming for a reduction in traffic burdens and an improvement in overall urban transport services.
Source: Batam News (2024)
Keywords: Batam City Council, Mass Transport Bill, Public Transit Deliberation
