DILI, 25 november 2023 (TATOLI) – The increase in the volume of vehicles in Dili contributes to pollution and impedes traffic flow. To mitigate the effects of this problem, at least for one day, the Presidency of the Republic has organized a ‘Car Free Day’, to promote healthy urban living.
Car Free Day is one of the events organized to celebrate the 48th anniversary of the Proclamation of Independence Day.
“I appreciate the Car Free Day event. This activity promotes public health. I would like to hold the Car Free Day event once a month next year so that motorists and drivers don’t spend more money on fuel, thus contributing to reducing pollution and leaving fresher, cleaner air, as well as providing physical exercise that is good for the health of the participants,” said Ramos Horta on the sidelines of the event at the B. J. Habibie Garden, in Dili.
According to the Head of State, the Presidency of the Republic, the Government, the private sector, and the Indonesian Embassy in Timor-Leste will see how great the impact of the event is and decided to whether repeat it next year.
The Car Free Day policy has already been implemented in many countries, contributing to a significant reduction in traffic-related air pollution, noise, and temperature in city centers.
The President of the Organizing Committee of the ‘Car Free Day’, Joel Pereira, said that the event started at 6am and ended at 12pm, with a route from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation (MoFAC) to the B. J. Habibe Garden in Lecidere, with a distance of 4.3 kilometers.
The event was organized by the Presidency of the Republic in collaboration with 18 government institutions to encourage people to move around in Dili without cars, carrying out walks, healthy marches, hikes, and bike races.
Pereira also pointed out that the event was attended by more than 2,000 people. The total amount allocated to this initiative was around US$25, which was used for logistical costs, etc.
The Secretary of State for Social Communication was the winner of the women’s health walk, with second place going to the Ministry of Youth, Sport, Art and Culture (MJDAC) and third to the Timor-Leste National Defense Force (F-FDTL). Of the men’s teams, F-FDTL were the winners, second place was won by MJDAC, and third by the National Police of Timor-Leste (PNTL).
Journalist: Jose Belarmino de Sa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
