"They are for athletes with disabilities. Currently, preparations have been made, and we have coordinated with the Ministry of Transportation," Head of the Solo Transportation Office Hari Prihatno noted in Solo on Friday.
Prihatno remarked that discussions were still underway for the provision of low-floor buses, and they would be operated in July alongside the implementation of the ASEAN Para Games.
"We do not know yet as to when the buses will arrive in Solo, as this is in the process of being discussed," he said.
The low-floor buses have been tested some time back for a duration of one month, Prihatno stated.
According to the office head, the trial results showed that the low-floor buses are not only disability-friendly but also elderly-friendly.
"They do need improvement for more representative stops. Actually, special bus stops are not necessary, as they are already low floor," he remarked.
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Later, after being used by the ASEAN Para Games athletes next month, his side had planned that the buses will be used for the rejuvenation of bus rapid transit Batik Solo Trans (BST) in corridors 3 and 4. In addition, some of the buses will be operationalized in other corridors to facilitate passengers with disabilities, he remarked.
"In terms of suspension, it is also more comfortable for passengers, including old people, while riding this low-floor bus," Prihatno emphasized.
Earlier, Surakarta Mayor Gibran Rakabuming Raka said he would continue to develop BST operations in the agglomeration area, specifically Greater Solo encompassing Klaten, Boyolali, Sukoharjo, and Karanganyar.
Some 1,648 athletes and 661 officials from 11 ASEAN countries are expected to compete in 14 sports branches of the ASEAN Para Games 2022, Raka stated.
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Translator: Aris W, Kenzu T
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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