Disputes on Public Roads: Coal Transportation Policy and Actor Networks in Jambi Province, Indonesia

Abstract: Besides providing financial contributions to local revenue, coal also increases transportation problems in Jambi province. Mobilization of trucks that pass through the public roads has caused damage although already a regional policy that forbids it. This phenomenon has brought some disputes implication among local stakeholders in various forms, either in the judiciary or in the field. This paper examines that phenomenon from public policy aspects, especially from a policy actor networks perspective. This study used a descriptive qualitative approach by relying on documentary data which revealed that the complexity of coal transportation issues in Jambi province is visible from regulation violations by coal entrepreneurs that use the public road. Demonstrations by coal truck driver, road blockage protests by resident and even efforts by coal entrepreneurs are held to revise local regulation. The source of the problem is due to self-interests of government officials and coal operators. The key solution is law enforcement and policy support from district government towards the provincial government policies.Keywords: Public policy, actor-network, policy network, coal transportation, Jambi Province