There was a warning from the BMKG (Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency) regarding weather conditions in these days. Hence, as a legislator, I decided to monitor traffic and weather conditions before the New Year's DayJakarta (ANTARA) - House of Representatives' (DPR RI's) Deputy Speaker Rachmat Gobel reminded relevant authorities to prioritize safety aspects while serving the public amid fluctuating weather conditions.
"The current weather conditions are fluctuating. Prioritize services and safety for the public. During the year-end holiday period, officials and public service operators must (be on) stand by," Gobel said in a statement on Saturday.
The deputy speaker, on Friday (December 30), conducted an aerial observation with the National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) to monitor weather conditions in Jakarta and Banten.
Gobel departed from Halim Perdanakusuma International Airport in East Jakarta for the observation with Basarnas Chief Secretary Abdul Haris Achda and Major General (Ret.) IGK Manila.
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"There was a warning from the BMKG (Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency) regarding weather conditions in these days. Hence, as a legislator, I decided to monitor traffic and weather conditions before the New Year's Day," the deputy speaker stated.
The deputy speaker noted that light rain occurred throughout his flight, yet no strong winds were encountered.
He said that as DPR RI deputy speaker for industrial and development coordination, the parliament's Commission V, which oversees the Basarnas and the transportation sector, comes under his responsibility.
Fluctuating weather conditions in Indonesia caused heavy rains, strong winds, and huge sea waves, he stated while pointing out that accidents had occurred at Merak Port, Banten, where two vehicles plunged into the sea due to high waves rocking the ferry ships.
"I commend the Basarnas, the police, and Transportation Ministry officials, who assisted with (handling) the accident at Merak Port," he stated.
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Gobel affirmed that as a legislator, he would ensure that all stakeholders, including the Transportation Ministry, Basarnas, and public transport operators, remain on standby and serve residents properly while not neglecting safety aspects.
"There is one day remaining before New Year's Day, which will fall on Sunday. There would be huge crowd concentration and surges in traffic, and (all stakeholders) must (be on) standby (on that day)," the deputy speaker remarked.
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Translator: Risbiani F, Nabil Ihsan
Editor: Fardah Assegaf
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