City planning shifts focus to mass transit solutions amid increasing traffic congestion issues.

As Batam faces worsening traffic congestion, Mayor Amsakar Achmad has proposed integrating Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) and Light Rail Transit (LRT) into the city’s long-term development plan. This initiative is expected to be included in the Regional Medium-Term Development Plan (RPJMD) to secure policy and budget support from the central government.

Despite extensive road-widening projects, traffic congestion remains a significant issue, especially during peak hours. The mayor emphasized the need for alternative solutions beyond infrastructure expansion, calling for a modern, efficient mass transportation system.

On March 3, 2025, Mayor Amsakar Achmad proposed the inclusion of BRT and LRT in Batam’s Regional Medium-Term Development Plan (RPJMD). He stressed that continued reliance on road expansions alone will not resolve the city’s congestion problem. Instead, he advocated for a shift towards a more sustainable and efficient mass transit system.

Additionally, he highlighted that Batam requires new roads and flyovers to reduce traffic bottlenecks in key areas, including Muka Kuning, Nongsa, Kepri Mall, and Batu Aji. However, he acknowledged that such infrastructure projects require substantial government funding, and discussions with the central government are ongoing to secure financial support.

Mass Transit for a Growing City

Batam’s rapid urbanization and growing population have resulted in severe traffic congestion, particularly in areas such as Simpang Muka Kuning and Simpang Kepri Mall. While road-widening projects have been undertaken, they have not been sufficient to keep up with the increasing volume of vehicles.

Mayor Amsakar emphasized that a long-term solution is necessary, stating:
“BRT or LRT will be included in RPJMD. Hopefully, it will be approved as an official document for Batam’s future development.”

The mayor envisions an integrated public transportation network that provides safe, comfortable, and efficient mobility for residents, reducing reliance on private vehicles.

New Roads and Flyovers as Interim Solutions

While advocating for BRT and LRT, Mayor Amsakar also acknowledged the need for new roads and flyovers to address congestion hotspots. Some of the key areas identified for improvement include:

1. Muka Kuning-Nongsa: A major bottleneck that needs alternative routes.
2. Simpang Kepri Mall: A proposed flyover to connect with Dam Duriangkang.
3. Batu Aji and Simpang Tembesi: Expansion of road networks to provide alternative routes.

According to Amsakar, these projects will require significant funding, making it necessary to lobby the central government for financial support.

Legal Framework for Public Transport Reform

Batam’s Secretary of the Regional Government, Jefridin Hamid, announced that the city has proposed new regulations for public transport systems. This includes drafting a Regional Regulation (Raperda) on Public Mass Transport, which aims to:

• Improve accessibility to eco-friendly public transport.
• Reduce carbon emissions through sustainable transit systems.
• Enhance urban spatial planning for transport integration.
  

Jefridin emphasized that this proposal aligns with Indonesia’s Law No. 26 of 2007 on Spatial Planning, ensuring that urban development prioritizes mass transit solutions.

Batam’s push for BRT and LRT reflects a crucial shift in urban planning, recognizing that traditional road expansions are insufficient in addressing traffic congestion. The initiative not only aligns with sustainable transportation goals but also seeks to modernize the city’s mobility infrastructure.

While mass transit implementation may take years, short-term solutions such as new roads and flyovers will help alleviate congestion in the meantime. However, successful execution will depend on funding from the central government and public acceptance of new transit modes.

Sources: Gokepri (2025), Arira News (2025)

Keywords: Batam, Public Transport, Traffic, BRT, LRT, Infrastructure