Jakarta (ANTARA) - There was a lesser amount of plastic waste during Sunday's Car Free Day on Sudirman-Thamrin Boulevards, Jakarta, the first weekend of Muslims' fasting month of Ramadhan.

Based on ANTARA's observation here on Sunday, there were only a few visitors at the CFD location, held from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m.

"There is almost no plastic waste this time, other than leaf waste from trees along Sudirman Street, although some people still litter," a janitor, Ahmad, said.

Nevertheless, there were some people who were walking leisurely, jogging, or cycling either alone, or with their family, and friends.

Ahmad explained in the previous CFDs, many visitors left huge amounts of plastic waste that overwhelmed the cleaners.

"We do not mind cleaning up the rubbish, because that's our job. However, many trash cans have been placed along the Sudirman pedestrians; They do not need to walk far to throw the garbage at the trash cans," he said.

He said he once reprimanded people who littered, but their responses were not respectful.

"So if I happen to see someone who is about to litter, I go to them and hand out a garbage bag. Maybe then they can come to their senses," he said.

East Jakarta Parking Service Unit officer, Hotler, at the Chaze Plaza spot, said the lack of visitors on the streets where CFD was held was because of the absence of events usually held by private parties or other participants there.

"Events such as concerts during this (month's) CFDs are canceled because they coincide with the Ramadhan month," Hotler said.

Even though there are no events held at CFD during Ramadhan, he said the number of the security team and committee at CFD is not reduced.

This year's CFD committee involved the Greater Jakarta police, the transportation office, the environment office, the public order and security agency (Satpol PP), the youth and sports office, and the tourism and culture office.

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Translator: Redemptus S, Kenzu
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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