City to turn cemeteries into parks, attractions

The Jakarta Post, Fri, 03/13/2009 2:53 PM

 

JAKARTA: The city parks and burial agency plans to turn cemeteries across the capital into green areas by planting more trees in these areas.

 

"We intend to do away with the idea of cemeteries being spooky places. We want to turn cemeteries into *real' parks, with lots of trees and even water fountains," agency head Ery Basworo said on Thursday.

 

"The trees will add to our green spaces, and are an important way to absorb more rainwater.

 

"We are still working on a master plan, including maps and designs," Ery said.

 The agency would work with private companies under the Corporate Social and Responsibility (CSR) program to plant trees in 96 cemeteries across the city.