Jakarta's Double-Decker Buses Officially Operating

Jakarta, Feb 24 (Antara) - Five double-decker tourist buses provided by the Jakarta Provincial Government became officially operational on Monday, according to Jakarta Tourism and Culture Department Chief Arie Budhiman. "Starting 9 a.m. today, the double-decker buses are being officially operated free of cost for the tourists and common people," Arie stated here on Monday. He noted that for the initial three months, tourists and the public can avail the services of these double-decker buses free of cost. "After a three-month trial period, we will apply the free ticket system, and the tickets will be made available at several hotels and shopping centers in Jakarta," Arie pointed out. He added that although the tourists and people can enjoy a free ride, the operations of the buses and passengers` conduct will be periodically evaluated by the officials of the Jakarta Tourism and Culture Department. "We will conduct a periodical evaluation to ensure whether the passengers are following a code of conduct and maintaining cleanliness in the bus," he remarked. He explained that during every trip, four officials such as the driver, conductor, tourist guide, and tourist police will be on board every bus. "For the tourist police on board the double-decker buses, we will cooperate with the Jakarta Metropolitan Police, while the tourist guides will be from the Indonesian Tourism Association and Historia Community," Arie asserted. He expressed optimism that the icons of Jakarta tourism artistically depicted on the double-decker buses will lure more local and foreign tourists to visit the capital city. "Essentially, every passenger on board these buses will be able to gain an insight into the recreational sites or iconic sights of Jakarta," he explained.