During the reign of Governor J.P. Coen, Batavia already had a modern transportation system for its time: the tram. Around 1897, a tram line operated around the Stationsplein area, now known as the Bank Mandiri Museum, near Kota Station. This tram connected the government center at Stadhuis with the Harmoni area and was directly integrated with the intercity railway line that stopped at Kota Station. The tram line passing in front of the station demonstrates that mass transportation had been a primary focus in Batavia's development from the beginning.
Tropen Museum Documentation on Wikipedia
Besides trams, water transportation also played a vital role in the mobility of Batavia's residents. The 1920s city plan outlined a network of rivers to connect various areas of the city. The Harmoni and Hayam Wuruk areas were known as trading centers at the time, where economic activity took place not only on land but also on water.
Jakarta Encyclopedia Documentation
The origins of this water transportation began at Sunda Kelapa Harbor, which served as the main gateway for merchant ships. The Ciliwung River, then wide and deep, allowed merchant boats to reach deep into the city. The tributaries of the Ciliwung River served as waterways connecting various parts of the city. To facilitate the smooth flow of ships, the Red Bridge, which could be opened and closed, allowed ships to pass unhindered. At the time, this bridge was considered a technological achievement that significantly supported Batavia's economic activity.
Written by Noverdy R
Reference:
Setianti, Eni, et al. Jakarta Encyclopedia: Jakarta Past, Present, & Tomorrow. Jakarta: PT Lentera Abadi, 2009.
