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| Car Free Day reduces air pollutionBERITAJAKARTA.COM — 10/25/2009 8:28:26 PM
Car Free Day program held in the Indonesian Capital City of Jakarta has proven effective in reducing air pollution. Based on the data from Jakarta Environmental Management Board (BPLHD), the program has managed to decrease the amount of dust particle (PM-10) by 34 percent, Carbon Monoxide (CO) by 68 percent, and Nitrogen Monoxide (NO) by 80 percent.
”The data result from analysis we conducted within 14 days; seven days before and after the program was held. Therefore, we conclude that the program is quite effective for air pollution reduction,” said Peni Susanti, Head of Jakarta BPLHD, Sunday (10/25).
More than 15 thousand people participated in Car Free Day held Sunday (10/25). Wawan (27), a resident of Kemayoran, said he was quite enthusiastic to join the program.
In the mean time, another participant, Tanto (27) said besides improving the air quality in Jakarta, the program was also a good moment for public to gather while doing exercise.
During the Car Free Day, two main thoroughfares (Jl Sudirman and Jl Thamrin) were closed for motor-vehicles, from 6 am to 2 pm.
Car Free Day is held twice a month; every last Sunday (along main thoroughfares of Jl Sudirman-Thamrin), and second Sunday of the month which is conducted in turn in five municipalities of Jakarta.
In addition to reducing air pollution generated from emission of motor-vehicles, Car Free Day is also a way to raise public awareness of the efficient use of personal motor-vehicle; moreover, the program also has social impacts on public as they can interact with each other during the program.
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| | Translator: halim |
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