Jakarta Considers Twice-Weekly Car Free Day to Combat Pollution

Jakarta Deputy Governor Rano Karno has responded positively to a proposal from the DKI Jakarta City Council to test the implementation of a Car Free Day (CFD) twice a week for three months. Karno views the proposal as "interesting" and believes it has the potential to reduce emissions. According to Karno, holding CFD on Sundays is relatively easier because office activities are minimal. However, he noted that implementing CFD on Saturdays would require further consideration, as many people are still working on that day. "If it's Sunday, it's easier. On Saturday, perhaps some people are still working, there are still office activities," he said. Despite the considerations, Karno believes that holding CFD twice a week is still feasible. He linked the proposal to other emission reduction efforts previously undertaken by the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government, such as the one-hour blackout initiative. Karno also revealed that he had previously proposed implementing a Car Free Night as an effort to reduce carbon emissions. Regarding the possibility of CFD being held on Saturdays, Karno believes its implementation would not be difficult. He stated that the vehicle restrictions during CFD are also for a limited time. "Actually, it's not difficult. This is actually just, it's not for long, right? It's the same as Car Free hours from 05.30 to 09.00, if so. But it's actually effective (in reducing emissions), you know," he said.