PORTALJABAR, BANDUNG CITY - The Bandung City Government has demolished 58 illegal buildings to restore the function of sidewalks as safe spaces for the community.

The clean-up targeted buildings on sidewalks, road shoulders, and drainage channels in the Rajawali Road area, Andir District (13/8/2026).

Head of the Bandung City Civil Service Police Unit, Bambang Sukardi, said the arrangement was carried out to ensure that public facilities could be used safely by the public.

"The most important thing is to prioritize safety. Buildings or structures located on sidewalks, road shoulders, or drainage channels are clearly not permitted," said Bambang.

The arrangement refers to Regional Regulation Number 3 of 2026 to return sidewalks to their primary function.

The restoration of sidewalk function also provides adequate space for pedestrians and people with disabilities in the area.

The clean-up was carried out after the public submitted complaints regarding the condition of Jalan Rajawali Timur, which was deemed to need to be arranged.

Satpol PP involved the Andir District Leadership Coordination Forum, sub-district heads, village heads, community leaders, the TNI, the Polri, and related regional apparatus.

Of the 58 buildings targeted for development, nine buildings have been independently demolished by their owners.

"Of the 58 buildings, approximately nine have been demolished independently. This means they fully understand that it's in their own best interest," he said.

Bambang said the persuasive approach gave building owners the opportunity to demolish the buildings themselves before officers took action.

The Bandung City Government also assists with the demolition process if necessary, including using supporting equipment for permanent buildings.

The arrangement of public facilities will be carried out in stages in various areas of Bandung City, covering 30 sub-districts and 151 urban villages.

"We prioritize a regional, persuasive approach. Don't rely entirely on cities. Cities are merely supporting factors; we'll return the focus to regional governance," he explained.

Bambang emphasized that the regulation was not aimed at prohibiting people from earning a living, but rather ensuring that economic activities did not interfere with the rights of users of public facilities.

"This isn't about prohibiting people from earning a living or selling goods, but rather about complying with the regulations. It's in the public interest," he said.

The Bandung City Government does not provide compensation or relocation for building owners affected by the eviction of the Jalan Rajawali area.

However, the use of empty space can be discussed if it is available to accommodate the activities of the affected community.

"There's no compensation or relocation for the city of Bandung. However, if there's any vacant space that can be discussed, hopefully it can be utilized," he said.

(Bandung City Communications and Information Service/bhf)