The Jakarta Transportation Agency (Dishub) reported a 9.74% increase in pedestrian traffic during the first five months of 2026 compared to the same period in 2025. Data from the agency shows that the number of pedestrians rose from 265,952 to 291,852, a shift officials attribute to growing public interest in healthy, active lifestyles and increased demand for accessible public spaces.
Why is pedestrian traffic increasing in Jakarta?
According to Budi Awaludin, head of the Jakarta Transportation Agency, the rise in numbers reflects a broader public shift toward using urban areas for exercise, recreation, and social interaction rather than just transit. This trend arrives as the city attempts to address historically low levels of physical activity among residents. Research previously published in the journal Nature by Stanford University found that Indonesians recorded an average of 3,513 daily steps, one of the lowest rates globally. Local authorities view expanded pedestrian access as a necessary measure to encourage more active daily habits.
How is the city managing the Rasuna Said expansion?
The Jakarta Provincial Government is expanding its Car Free Day (HBKB) program to the Rasuna Said corridor to support this demand for walkable space. To facilitate the transition, the Jakarta Transportation Agency has established 10 alternative traffic diversion routes. The agency has also designated four off-street parking facilities capable of holding 1,914 cars and 1,910 motorcycles. To ensure accessibility for visitors, officials have coordinated seven Transjakarta bus routes and two Jabodebek LRT lines to serve the area. Budi noted that the agency has held meetings with stakeholders along the corridor, including embassies, hotels, and places of worship, to prepare for the implementation.
What happens next for urban mobility?
The expansion of the Car Free Day program could lead to improved air quality and a shift in how residents view sustainable transport. By prioritizing pedestrian and cyclist-friendly infrastructure, the Jakarta Provincial Government aims to foster a stronger culture of walking and public transit use. If the increase in pedestrian numbers continues, it is likely that authorities will face further pressure to identify additional corridors for similar programs. The long-term success of these initiatives may depend on the city’s ability to maintain safe and comfortable public spaces that cater to the evolving needs of residents for exercise and mobility.
