Walking for Health, Reducing Traffic Jams

Bandung is trying to reduce traffic congestion through its “Walk to School” program. In its first stage, the program is being implemented at schools on Jl. Merdeka. The response has been positive.

Kompas/Tatang Mulyana Sinaga

Students walk along the sidewalks of Jl. Merdeka on Wednesday (7/3) in Bandung, West Java. The Bandung municipal administration is promoting a “Walk to School” program to reduce the use of private vehicles and to reduce traffic congestion.

Severe traffic jams lurk in every corner of a big city, including Bandung. High stress is common on the roads as motorists try to reach their destinations on time.

The Bandung municipal administration is attempting to tackle the problem by introducing a walking culture. On Wednesday morning (7/3), the sidewalks on Jl. Merdeka in downtown Bandung were filled with students. This newfound spirit marked the beginning of a new culture of walking to school.