Jakarta Governor Orders Demolition of Pedestrian Bridge Due to Disability Access Issues

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has ordered the demolition of a pedestrian bridge on Jalan HR Rasuna Said, known for its "Love-Hate Relationship" nickname, citing critical accessibility problems for people with disabilities. The governor stated that one of the two existing bridges at the location is "truly not friendly to people with disabilities."

During an inspection, Anung observed that the older bridge lacked an elevator and presented a significant height difference between its access points and the surrounding area. This design made it difficult, if not impossible, for individuals with disabilities to utilize the facility. "The old one doesn't have a lift, so it's not easy for the public, especially people with disabilities, to access," Anung explained.

The governor emphasized that the remaining, newer bridge will undergo maintenance and upgrades, including ensuring its elevator functions properly. This move aims to make the facility more accessible for all residents. Anung noted that the older bridge, likely built in the 1980s or early 1990s, represented a past public facility development issue, contrasting with the newer bridge associated with the LRT and KAI.

"We will improve the maintenance of the new one, make it easier, including the elevator and so on, which we have checked so that hopefully it's no longer 'Love and Hate,' no longer 'Love and Love,' or just one 'Love,'" Pramono remarked. The demolition of the older bridge is part of an effort to streamline public infrastructure and ensure better usability.