The Jakarta Mass Rapid Transit system has been a long-awaited solution to the city’s growing traffic problems. In recent years, the Indonesian capital has faced significant congestion on its roads, leading to a decline in air quality and an increase in travel times. With the MRT system being developed over the past few years, there is new optimism for a sustainable and efficient transportation option. One of the most significant steps in this process has been the use of a Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) to connect the city’s major stations. In this article, we’ll explore the impact and benefits of this game-changing infrastructure development.
MRT Jakarta (Mass Rapid Transit Jakarta) is a highly anticipated transportation project in Indonesia’s capital city. The project is expected to relieve Jakarta’s notorious traffic congestion by providing a faster and more efficient mode of transportation. On March 20th, the project achieved another milestone as TBM 1 successfully reached the Bundaran HI station’s northern shaft wall, connecting three stations in downtown Jakarta; the Bundaran HI, Thamrin, and Monas MRT stations.
TBM (tunnel boring machine) 1, the giant drilling machine, has completed the northbound 563-meter tunnel, extending from Thamrin station’s south up to Bundaran HI on the northern side of the tunnel. In total, the machine has opened up the tunnel’s total length of 1,126 meters. MRT Jakarta spokesperson Ahmad Pratomo stated that TBM 1 would be dismantled and moved to Monas station’s northern side to continue the southern part of the project. The tunnel’s length will roughly cover 1,029 meters.
The phase 2A MRT project will connect the Bundaran HI Station to Kota for about 5.8 kilometers and consist of seven underground stations, namely Thamrin, Monas, Harmoni, Sawah Besar, Mangga Besar, Glodok, and Kota. This project is expected to provide easy access to multiple popular locations, including business centers, tourist attractions, and other significant places.
Another notable tunnel boring machine, TBM 2, connected the Thamrin and Monas stations on December 15th, 2020. Since then, the machine has opened up the one-kilometer tunnel extending from Monas station up to Harmoni station. The tunnel has brought the project closer to completion and will soon be accessible to commuters.
The MRT Jakarta project has been plagued with delays and controversy since its inception. However, the government’s efforts to resolve the project’s issues, including financial constraints and contract disputes, have been promising. The project is expected to alleviate the heavy traffic congestion experienced by Jakarta’s over 10 million inhabitants.
The completion of the MRT Jakarta project is expected to transform the city’s transportation system, improve connectivity, and alleviate traffic congestion. The project will reduce travel time by providing a faster and more efficient mode of transportation. Additionally, it will contribute to Jakarta’s environmental sustainability goals through the reduction of congestion and associated emissions.
In conclusion, the MRT Jakarta project is a significant step forward for the city’s transportation system, marking a new era for public transportation in Indonesia. The completion of the project is vital for the city’s growth, development, and future. The MRT Jakarta will undoubtedly bring a series of benefits to commuters, businesses, and the entire Jakarta community. The project’s success is a testament to Indonesia’s commitment to improving infrastructure and promoting development.
