BRT's Influence on Public Transport Improvements in Indonesian Cities

The introduction of the Jakarta Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, TransJakarta, in 2004, set a new precedent for public transport services in Indonesia. To date, though, the promise of BRT remains below that achieved in other countries. Along with TransJakarta's rapid expansion to eight corridors, institutional shortcuts taken have resulted in basic operational problems that cause severe overcrowding. Beginning in 2005, the national government has worked to develop bus-based projects in other Indonesian cities that have adopted some elements of the BRT model. As of 2010, projects are underway in Batam, Bogor, Yogyakarta, Pekanbaru, Manado, Bandung, Palembang, and Gorontalo. These systems lack crucial BRT components, such as dedicated median busways and easy boarding. While the attention to public transport is welcome, these systems would benefit from a more passenger-based approach to service, a sustainable financial model, and priority in congested areas.