Arya Dipa, Bandung – The Bandung city administration in West Java has launched a premium angkot (public minivan) service, which will lure passengers with its modern facilities, such as flat-screen TVs, wi-fi, books and electric outlets.
Bandung Mayor Ridwan Kamil said the passengers would have to pay higher fares for the service. "These angkots will serve the same popular angkot routes in Bandung. The fares are more expensive, but passengers will enjoy better service and comfort," he said in Bandung, on Wednesday.
The angkot is called Angklung, which is a traditional Sundanese bamboo music instrument, but it also stands for Angkutan Umum Keliling Bandung (Public Transport Around Bandung).
During the initial phase, only two premium angkot cars are available serving the Ciwastra-Cijerah route.
Bandung Transportation Agency head Didi Ruswandi said the administration plans to increase the number of premium angkots and serve more routes. Ridwan also said he hoped the premium angkot service would help persuade motorists to shift from private vehicles to public transportation. (bbs)