Jakarta –

PT Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) Jakarta plans to construct an elevated pedestrian bridge in the Blok M area. The skybridge will connect to buildings in the Panglima Polim district, South Jakarta.

The construction of the skybridge is part of efforts to revitalize Blok M into a livable district. MRT Jakarta hopes the revitalization will make Blok M more pedestrian-friendly.

“The first phase of future development will involve building a skybridge from the Blok M station to the buildings in Panglima Polim,” said the Business Development Director of PT MRT Jakarta during a fellowship class in Jakarta.

The director stated that the skybridge will improve pedestrian mobility, especially for workers in the buildings connected by the bridge.

“The most important development concept is transforming this area from Peruri to Melawai into a pedestrian-friendly zone, allowing people to walk easily without encountering terminal walls. This area needs revitalization,” he explained.

“We aim to relocate all business activities underground to facilitate smoother pedestrian movement. We have already started by removing certain restrictions in this area,” he added.

One of the current obstacles for pedestrians in Blok M is terminal access, requiring people to climb stairs to reach it.

“A major hindrance for pedestrians is the elevated terminal design. When moving from Peruri to Melawai, people encounter a wall and must climb stairs to access the terminal,” he said.

“The new design will allow seamless walking from Peruri or residential areas—open and unobstructed,” he continued.

Open Spaces and Additional Parks

The director mentioned that MRT Jakarta will expand open-space activities on the west side and add more parks on the east side.

“The east side will feature green parks, while the west side will include a creative area,” he said.

Construction is expected to begin within the next 2 to 3 years, with designs being finalized beforehand.

PT MRT Jakarta

PT MRT Jakarta is the operator of Jakarta’s Mass Rapid Transit system, which launched its first line in March 2019 to address the city’s severe traffic congestion. The MRT network, a landmark infrastructure project in Indonesia, was developed with Japanese technology and funding, featuring modern, efficient trains. It represents a major step in Jakarta’s public transportation evolution, with plans for expansion to improve urban mobility further.

Blok M

Blok M is a well-known commercial and entertainment district in South Jakarta, Indonesia. It gained popularity in the 1970s and 1980s as a bustling hub for shopping, nightlife, and public transportation, particularly for its bus terminal. Today, it remains a lively area with malls, restaurants, and a mix of modern and nostalgic charm.

Panglima Polim

Panglima Polim is a historic area in Jakarta, Indonesia, named after a prominent Acehnese resistance leader, Teuku Panglima Polem, who fought against Dutch colonial rule in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, the area is known for its vibrant street life, markets, and cultural diversity, reflecting Jakarta’s dynamic urban character. The name honors Polem’s legacy as a national hero in Indonesia’s struggle for independence.

Blok M station

Blok M Station is a major transportation hub located in South Jakarta, Indonesia, serving as a key interchange for the Jakarta MRT and TransJakarta Busway. Named after the nearby Blok M shopping and entertainment district, the station was opened in 2019 as part of the first phase of Jakarta’s MRT system to alleviate the city’s traffic congestion. It plays a vital role in connecting commuters to commercial, residential, and cultural areas in the city.

Peruri

Peruri is a well-known financial district and business area in Jakarta, Indonesia, historically recognized for housing the Perum Peruri (the country’s state-owned printing company). Established in 1971, Peruri is responsible for printing secure documents like banknotes, passports, and stamps. Today, the area symbolizes Indonesia’s economic growth and modernization, blending commercial activity with national heritage.

Melawai

Melawai is a vibrant district located in South Jakarta, Indonesia, known for its bustling shopping scene, particularly the famous Melawai Plaza and Blok M Square, which are popular for fashion, electronics, and local goods. Historically, the area developed as a commercial hub in the late 20th century, attracting both locals and tourists. Today, it remains a lively destination with a mix of modern malls, traditional markets, and diverse culinary offerings.