Toba Regent: Residents Convenience Remain Ensured Despite Traffic Engineering

Photo caption: Minister of Communications and Informatics Johnny G. Plate and Toba Regent Poltak Sitorus at a press conference held at MCI’s Media Center for the F1 Powerboat 2023 in Balige, Saturday (Feb.25). (Photo: MCI’s Media Center)

Balige, February 25, 2023 - Traffic engineering scheme or traffic diversion applied at several points in Toba Regency during the F1 PowerBoat Lake Toba 2023, especially around Lake Toba, North Sumatra, was carried out to the maximum extent, not only for the smooth and success organisation of the international event the region is hosting and more importantly, while maintaining resident’s convenience in doing activities.

Toba Regent Poltak Sitorus emphasized it during a press conference at the Communication and Informatics Media Center for the F1 PowerBoat Lake Toba 2023 in Balige on Saturday, February 25. "Regarding traffic management, we have carefully considered it. We will continue coordinating with the Regional Police," he said.

He also believes the international boat racing event will boost North Sumatra's economy, especially Toba Regency. "There are road access restriction at several points, where visitors with tickets enter the venue by foot to avoid traffic jams. Meanwhile, the community's economic activities continue to run optimally," he said.

Spectators, said Poltak, will be able to enjoy various side events, including MSMEs products exhibition (food, drinks, souvenirs, and others) along their way to the venue. "We invite locals to welcome them with joy. As they walk by, we welcome them with dances and songs," he explained.

Poltak believes residents understand that traffic engineering scheme is required in the organization of a national or international event, as similar measure is also applied in other countries. "we’ll learn that walking is healthy. We can walk while enjoying the MSMEs products around us," said Poltak.

The North Sumatra Regional Police is implementing traffic engineering management scheme in Balige District, Toba Regency, North Sumatra, for the F1 PowerBoat Lake Toba 2023. the traffic management scheme is applied on several roads within Balige subdistrict. This measure is applied to anticipate traffic jams because thousands of people and tourists who come to the area during the F1 PowerBoat.

Despite the implementation of traffic management scheme, local residents can still carry out their activities as usual.

Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), Indonesian National Police (Polri), and local Transportation Office personnel are deployed at several points to provide instructions and directions. In addition, security posts and traffic signs were also set up in the field to help provide better and clear information for the community.

Several parking spots have been prepared for incoming spectators' vehicles. After parking their vehicles, they can continue their way towards the venue by shuttle buses.

English editor: Penni Patmawati Rusman