Jakarta – More than two thirds of Jakartans polled in a recent survey have indicated that they want the 3-in-1 carpooling system permanently scrapped, arguing that it is ineffective in reducing traffic congestion.

The system, in place since the mid-1990s, was temporarily suspended as of last week. However, the suspension led to an apparent 25 percent increase in traffic on major roads, including Jalan Sudirman and Jalan Gatot Subroto, where the 3-in-1 system is typically in place.

The Jakarta Transportation Agency questioned around 3,300 Jakartans about the suspension in an online survey and found around 70 percent of respondents saying that they would support a move to scrap the 3-in-1 system permanently.

"Actually, the traffic congestion remains a problem, with or without 3-in-1. But at least, the social problems can be resolved [if 3-in-1 system is scrapped]," Jakarta Transportation Agency head Andri Yansah said, referring to child exploitation issues that came to be associated with the system.

The temporary suspension did not seem to have any impact on the public's enthusiasm, or lack thereof, for the city's public transport network. The agency only recorded a 5 percent increase in the number of TransJakarta passengers during the period.

Respondents argued that the 3-in-1 system, which is designed to bar private cars with less than three occupants from some of the city's main thoroughfares during rush hours, has not fulfilled its intended purpose. Jakartans noted that even with the system in place, congestion only shifted from major streets to smaller backroads nearby.

Another downside to the system is the presence of "jockeys" – some of whom take children and babies with them – to bypass the requirements. This one of the main reasons for the temporary suspension of the system.

Andri said more public transportation options will become available, as Jakarta is scheduled to begin the construction of a light rail transit system mid-year, while the mass rapid transit project is scheduled to be completed in 2019.

Jakarta Governor Basuki Tjahaja Purnama has earlier said that the technology and infrastructure for an electronic road pricing system – which bills drivers for entering certain streets using an onboard unit – is ready to replace the 3-in-1 system, but that the regulations and payment procedures are not.

Source: http://jakartaglobe.beritasatu.com/news/jakartans-want-3-1-system-permanently-scrapped/