On Sundays, I usually participate in Car Free Day. This event runs from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. During the event, the main roads are reserved exclusively for pedestrians and non-motorized vehicles. It provides an excellent opportunity to cycle, walk, or jog while enjoying the city's scenery without much concern about air pollution. The air feels cleaner, and the atmosphere is more relaxed without the constant noise and exhaust fumes from vehicles. It’s a refreshing break from the usual hustle of Jakarta's streets.
On this particular occasion, I plan to take some photos with my cellphone. I've always enjoyed photography, especially capturing the essence of urban life from different perspectives. If the results turn out great, I may consider investing in a mirrorless camera. This upgrade would allow me to take higher-quality photos and further explore my passion for photography. I find the city's view from a pedestrian perspective fascinating—the towering skyscrapers, intricate architecture, and lush green plants—all illuminated by the bright morning sun. It’s a unique way to experience the city that is often missed when driving or riding in a car.
Car Free Day is regularly held on Jakarta’s main roads—Thamrin, Sudirman, and Sisingamangaraja. These areas are known for their concentration of skyscrapers and modern buildings, making them a prime location for photography enthusiasts. Additionally, the event takes place in the Sudirman Central Business District (SCBD), an upscale area in the heart of Jakarta. The SCBD is a bustling hub of activity, home to numerous offices, shopping centers, and dining establishments. It’s an area that epitomizes the vibrant life of Jakarta.
On weekdays, the traffic congestion on these roads is overwhelming. The constant stream of cars, buses, and motorcycles creates a chaotic and stressful environment. The traffic jams are ridiculous, often stretching for miles and causing significant delays. Therefore, I like to think of Car Free Day as a celebration and a form of stress relief, both for the roads and for the people. It’s a chance to reclaim the streets, even if only for a few hours, and enjoy them in a more relaxed manner.
This morning, the air was clear, and the sky was a beautiful shade of blue. However, the sun was unusually hot for 7 a.m. Typically, 7 a.m. is much cooler, with a gentle breeze and a refreshing chill in the air. Perhaps this unseasonal heat is an effect of climate change? It’s hard to say for certain, but such anomalies are becoming increasingly common. Additionally, I noticed a building conducting fogging, possibly due to dengue fever in the area. This was a poor decision, as it caused all Car Free Day participants to cover their noses due to the suffocating fog. The fogging chemicals hung in the air, creating a thick, acrid haze that was difficult to breathe. It disrupted the otherwise pleasant atmosphere and forced many people to cut their activities short.
Usually, I stay at Car Free Day until 10 a.m., enjoying the full duration of the event. However, today I decided to head back home at 8:30 a.m. because it was just too hot. The intense heat made it uncomfortable to stay outdoors for an extended period. I also feel like I'm coming down with a cold due to this extreme weather. The sudden changes in temperature, from the cool mornings to the sweltering heat, can be quite taxing on the body.
Despite the challenges, I managed to capture some beautiful photos of the skyscrapers, green plants, and the vibrant street life. I walked for about two hours straight. Not bad at all, considering the conditions.
I enjoy Car Free Day so much. It’s a simple yet effective way to promote a healthier lifestyle and foster a sense of community. People of all ages and backgrounds come together to enjoy the open roads, engage in physical activities, and connect with each other. It’s a reminder of the importance of urban planning and the need for more green spaces and pedestrian-friendly areas in our cities.
The idea of purchasing a mirrorless camera has become even more appealing after today’s outing. A mirrorless camera would provide me with more creative control and the ability to capture higher-resolution images. It’s an investment in my hobby and a way to enhance my skills. I look forward to future Car Free Days and the opportunity to document the city’s ever-changing landscape.
Car Free Day is more than just a temporary stress relief from traffic. It’s a celebration of urban life. It's a chance to experience the city in a different way. Even in the face of challenges like traffic problems and climate change. I hope that initiatives like Car Free Day will inspire more cities to embrace similar practices and prioritize the well-being of their residents.
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