Urine Odor, Narrow Gap, and 100-Meter Distance to Toilet Behind IRTI Monas Bus Stop

Not a New Smell

For TransJakarta staff, the urine odor is not a newly emerging issue.

Andriansa, a TransJakarta tourism bus staff member, said the unpleasant smell has been noticeable for several weeks.

"We’ve been noticing this for several weeks now. Because this is our workplace, our container. Since we sit here, we have smelled it for some time," Andriansa said at the location on Saturday.

He explained the condition is bothersome as the building serves as a resting and eating area for the staff.

"They usually complain because this is a container, a resting place for drivers and staff. It’s also a place to eat. So, as staff, we do smell a very unpleasant odor," he explained.

Scented Sprays Used

While Kompas.com was on site, Andriansa and several TransJakarta cleaning staff were addressing the odor issue.

A staff member was seen carrying a jerrycan filled with a scented liquid, pouring it around the back of the staff room where the urine smell was strong.

Andriansa said the area is routinely cleaned. Fragrances and disinfectants are applied to reduce the odor.

However, these measures have not fully eliminated the urine smell, which returns especially when the area hasn’t been rained on.

"We consistently pour, clean, and pour again. But since there hasn’t been rain, it’s still difficult. We’re really puzzled," he said.

Gap Sealed Off

Staff have also attempted to prevent people from urinating behind the building.

The rear section has been closed off using wooden slats and metal rods, although some gaps remain large enough for a person to pass through.

"That’s why we closed the back. We put wood and metal bars there to block it because there’s a gap behind the trees," Andriansa explained.

This effort is based on suspicions that the area behind the building and trees is being used for urination.

However, staff have yet to identify who is responsible.