The Jakarta Provincial Government is developing a revitalization plan for the Kota Tua (Old Town) area that includes the implementation of a Low Emission Zone (LEZ) and the introduction of an electric tram system. According to Denny Aputra, Head of the Jakarta Old Town Area Management Unit, these measures aim to transform the district into a world-class tourist destination by 2029 while preserving its historical character.
How the Kota Tua revitalization will function
The revitalization project centers on balancing historical preservation with modern, eco-friendly infrastructure. Denny Aputra stated on June 14 that the government intends to limit vehicle traffic through the creation of a Low Emission Zone once the project reaches completion. The transit strategy relies on reviving historical tram routes, though these will be upgraded to operate entirely on electricity. The proposed tramway is expected to connect key tourist sites, including the area surrounding Sunda Kelapa, though officials have not yet finalized the official route map.
Integrating transit networks
City planners intend to link the new tramway with existing public transportation systems to improve accessibility. The initiative seeks to integrate the area with the Transjakarta network, the Jakarta Kota Station, and the MRT. This multi-modal approach is designed to support the broader goal of establishing Kota Tua as a prominent global city destination. The project’s timeline is closely tied to the Lebak Bulus-Kota MRT extension, which remains scheduled for an early 2029 debut.
What happens next for the Old Town
As the project moves toward its 2029 target, several steps remain for the Jakarta Provincial Government. The finalization of the tramway route map is still pending official approval, which will likely determine the specific logistical impact on the district’s traffic flow. Because the revitalization relies on the successful completion of the Lebak Bulus-Kota MRT line, any potential delays in the MRT construction could influence the timeline for the broader Kota Tua upgrades. Once these transit connections are established, the government’s ability to enforce the Low Emission Zone will depend on the final traffic management policies implemented by the administration.
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