Jakarta Police Prepare Traffic Engineering Amid Planned Protests

Jakarta Metro Police are preparing for significant traffic disruptions on Thursday, September 24, due to planned demonstrations in three critical areas: the Sudirman-Thamrin corridor, Monas (National Monument), and the vicinity of the DPR/MPR (House of Representatives/People's Consultative Assembly) building in Senayan. Residents and commuters are advised to anticipate potential congestion. To manage the situation, approximately 1,550 traffic personnel will be deployed. The police have adopted a flexible approach, opting not to implement widespread traffic diversions from the outset. Instead, decisions on traffic engineering will be made dynamically based on the number of protesters and the prevailing conditions on the ground. "Traffic diversion will be applied if necessary based on conditions on the ground," stated Kombes Firman Darmansyah, Director of Traffic for the Jakarta Metro Police, in a statement quoted by Antara on Wednesday, September 23. Commuters who do not have essential activities in the affected areas are strongly encouraged to seek alternative routes. The police have outlined several detour options to help mitigate the impact on traffic flow. For those traveling from West Jakarta towards Monas, recommended routes include Jalan Tomang Raya, Jalan Suryopranoto, and Harmoni. From South Jakarta, drivers can utilize Jalan Tendean, Jalan HR Rasuna Said, Jalan HOS Cokroaminoto, and proceed via Tugu Tani to reach Monas. Vehicles originating from East Jakarta are advised to take Jatinegara Street, Kramat Raya Street, and Tugu Tani. For drivers approaching from the Semanggi intersection and heading towards Slipi or Tomang, the suggested route is via Sudirman Street, Bendungan Hilir, Pejompongan, and then onto Jalan Letjen S. Parman. Another option for vehicles coming from Jalan Gatot Subroto involves taking Jalan Gerbang Pemuda, Patal Senayan, Jalan Pelajar, and finally Jalan Letjen S. Parman. Kombes Budi Hermanto, Head of Public Relations for the Jakarta Metro Police, urged the public to plan their journeys accordingly, allowing extra time and staying updated on traffic developments. Real-time information is accessible via the official social media channels of the Jakarta Metro Police Traffic Management Center (TMC). "Monitor the latest information through TMC social media, use alternative routes if necessary, and follow the instructions of officers in the field," urged Budi. Motorists are reminded to adhere to the directions provided by on-site police officers, as traffic flow adjustments may occur throughout the day in response to the evolving situation.