The governor held a coordination meeting, led by Vice Chairman of Parliament HA Djauhari and attended by representatives from coal and coal transportation companies, students, transportation experts, parliamentarians and other relevant agencies, here on Monday.
"The governor`s consolidation policy was formulated in consultation with a lot of parties. Therefore, the policy, which has been in effect from January 1, 2013, will remain in place," Alex stated.
He said PT Servo would finish constructing a road for coal transportation within three months after the flood waters recede.
"Actually, that road is ready, but it needs to be strengthened. After the heavy rainfall is over and the water recedes, we`ll see whether there is any repair work needed. If not, the road will be operational in three months` time. If that does not happen, I shall issue another license," Alex explained.
The license would be for another road that would be built by the coal association itself and must also be completed within three months.
"Besides, our trains will transport an extra 1,000 tonnes of coal per day, which means it will be 1.2 million tonnes of more coal being transported per year," Alex noted.
"However, companies found to be transporting coal on public roads will be penalized," he said.
After the meeting, the governor also met with the truck drivers who were calling on the government to allow them to continue using the public roads for coal transportation.
The governor told the drivers that transportation of mining products would not be allowed on public roads. Then, he asked them to stop the protests and return home.
At the coordination meeting, South Sumatra councilors expressed support for the governor`s policy.
(S038/KR-BSR/H-YH)
Editor: Jafar M Sidik
Copyright © ANTARA 2013
