Tangerang Selatan Mayor Hopes for MRT Extension to Ease Commutes and Boost Economy

Benyamin Davnie, the mayor of Tangerang Selatan, has expressed his hope that the planned extension of the Jakarta Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) route to his city will be realized soon. Davnie proposed the extension years ago, believing it would ease residents' commutes to Jakarta and bring economic, social, and cultural benefits to Tangerang Selatan. However, budget discussions for the project have not yet taken place.

The Jakarta MRT, a rapid transit system serving the Indonesian capital, officially opened its first phase from Lebak Bulus to Bundaran HI on March 24, 2019. The idea of constructing an MRT in Jakarta has been around since 1985, but the project only resumed in 2000 after improvements in Indonesia's socio-political and economic conditions. President Joko Widodo inaugurated the first line of the Jakarta MRT on March 24, 2019.

The construction of the second phase, particularly Phase II A from Bundaran HI to Kota Tua, is currently underway, although it has faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the JABODETABEK Urban Transportation Policy Integration Phase (JUTPI) report, the Jabodetabek transportation master plan (RITJ) aims to establish 10 MRT routes by 2035.

Why this matters: The potential extension of the Jakarta MRT to Tangerang Selatan could significantly improve the quality of life for residents by reducing commute times and traffic congestion. Moreover, the project has the potential to stimulate economic growth and cultural exchange between the two cities.

Mayor Davnie remains optimistic about the prospects of the MRT extension, stating, "I proposed the extension years ago to ease residents' commutes to Jakarta and bring economic, social, and cultural benefits to the city." Despite the lack of budget discussions thus far, Davnie continues to advocate for the project, recognizing its potential to transform Tangerang Selatan and strengthen its connection to the Indonesian capital.

Key Takeaways

• Tangerang Selatan mayor hopes for Jakarta MRT extension to his city.
• Jakarta MRT officially opened in 2019, with plans for 10 routes by 2035.
• MRT extension could ease commutes, boost economy, and cultural exchange.
• Budget discussions for Tangerang Selatan extension have not yet taken place.
• Mayor remains optimistic about the project's potential to transform his city.