Jakarta Car Free Day To Be Spread Across 32 Locations To Prevent Overcrowding In One Spot - TheSmartLocal Indonesia - Travel, Lifestyle, Culture & Language Guide

Jakarta CFD to take place at 32 locations

After over three months of stay-at-home orders, it makes sense that people are starting to get a little restless at home. So it’s no wonder that the recent Car Free Day (CFD) along Sudirman-Thamrin drew a larger crowd than usual.

Held on 21st June, after a hiatus of more than 3 months, the event saw many people turning up and disregarding social distancing measures. Because of this, arrangements for the Sunday sport program had to be reevaluated as we are still in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Cancellation of the original CFD plans

This morning, The Jakarta Post reported that Syafrin Liputo, head of the Jakarta Transportation Agency, has confirmed that the city’s administration is cancelling the Sudirman-Thamrin CFD to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

CFD along Thamrin-Sudirman on Sunday, 21st June 2020
Image credit: Kompas.com

This came after photos and videos of the event which showed crowds not adhering to physical distancing rules were shared widely on the Internet, raising concerns over public health.

Jakarta CFD will be spread across the city

After the cancellation of the event was announced, Jakarta authorities followed up with a decision to relocate CFD to 32 locations across the city. This is to prevent future overcrowding along Sudirman-Thamrin, which stretches across Jakarta’s areas of commerce.

As reported by Tempo.co, the CFD this Sunday, 28th June 2020, will begin at 6AM and end at 9AM.

Liputan6’s infographic of 32 CFD locations in Jakarta
Image credit: Liputan6

Locations where Jakartans can engage in outdoor activities include Jalan Surya Pranoto, Sisi Danau Sunter Selatan, Jalan Gajah Mada, Jalan Hayam Wuruk, Jalan Pemuda, Jalan Layang Non-Tol Antasari, Jalan Percetakan Negara 2, along with 25 newly designated spots.

Jalan Cipete Raya is highlighted in red
Image credit: Google Maps

One of the spots reserved is Jalan Cipete Raya, which is known for its row of hip cafes and restaurants. Since the street is located within a residential area, people who live in the area will be able to exercise outside this Sunday. It’s also located near the Cipete Raya MRT station.

Jalan Tebet Barat Dalam Raya is highlighted in red
Image credit: Google Maps

Another street that’s been added to the list is Jalan Tebet Barat Dalam Raya, which has been a go-to area for food lovers. It stretches for approximately 2km.

New trial arrangement for CFD

Depending on the situation this Sunday, there’s a possibility that CFD will be put on hold until further notice, because large crowded gatherings can turn into new COVID-19 clusters.

Since the new arrangement is still at a trial stage, it’s important that those who do decide to exercise outdoors this weekend wear a mask and practice physical distancing. More importantly, it’s strongly recommended that you go home immediately after you finish exercising.