Car-free Sunday

Every second Sunday, Jalan Sudirman and Jalan Thamrin, two major roads in Jakarta, are taken over by pedestrians and cyclists in car-free day. Conveniently, these roads are around the corner from our hotel, so we ventured out this morning to take a look and let Eamon to go for a ride.

 

The streets around the hotel were noticeably quieter, the usual chaos of cars and motorbikes replaced by throngs of people, stalls and street vendors selling all manner of tasty- and not so- looking food. Several fun runs or rides seemed to be organised with various groups in event shirts or race numbers. As we neared Jalan Sudirman, stacks of bikes of all shapes, sizes, colours and types could be seen, single speeds, road bikes, a tandem bmx and many with huge numbers of spokes, and spare wheels on the back!
The main road, 4 lanes each way was separated with lanes for pedestrians, slower riders and beginners and faster riders or experts. Volunteer marshals assisted at intersections along with the ubiquitous police officers. Several events were in progress with prize draws, giveaways and even bouncy castle - although it was too crowded to get anywhere near. A carnival atmosphere permeated.

Although many people were out enjoying the occasion, the road was still remarkably empty and completely rideable. Eamon had a great time zooming off and was quite unique on his balance bike while we followed along with Rory in the stroller. A few hundred metres down the road we turned about and meandered back, pausing for ice blocks to help us cool down.

A nice way to spend the morning and something we hope to do many more times!