ULM Academic Highlights Challenges for Inclusive Cities in Banjarmasin
Banjarmasin – Dr. Eng. Akbar Rahman, ST, MT, an academic from Lambung Mangkurat University (ULM) and urban planning observer, believes that Banjarmasin City cannot yet be fully considered an inclusive city for people with disabilities, especially in terms of accessibility to public spaces and urban services.
This view was expressed by Dr. Akbar Rahman in a study published in Radar Banjarmasin on December 3, 2025. According to the ULM lecturer, an inclusive city should provide spaces that are accessible to all residents without exception, without making certain groups struggle simply to move, cross paths, or access basic services.
He explained that the most fundamental indicator of a disability-friendly city is the quality of public facilities, particularly sidewalks and pedestrian paths. From an urban planning perspective, the condition of pedestrian paths in Banjarmasin is considered far from standard. Many sidewalks do not meet technical requirements, both in terms of width, slope, and path continuity, making it difficult for wheelchair users and people with visual impairments.
Dr. Akbar highlighted the continued presence of ramps that were too steep and guiding blocks obstructed by trees, poles, or vendor stalls. He argued that these issues were not merely technical errors, but rather a reflection of weak planning, implementation, and post-construction oversight. He observed that the construction of public facilities often stopped at the physical stage without further audits to ensure their functionality.
The ULM academic expert also emphasized the lack of coordination between agencies as a serious problem. He described situations where well-constructed sidewalks were again disrupted by the installation of poles, utility boxes, vehicle parking, and even the activities of street vendors. This indicates a development process that was still partial and not integrated from the initial planning stage.
Similar conditions are also found not only in public spaces, but also in service offices and the private sector, such as shopping centers. Although some have provided disability-friendly facilities, their implementation is considered suboptimal due to incomplete standards and minimal oversight.
As a solution, Dr. Akbar Rahman emphasized the importance of conducting city accessibility audits involving authorized institutions and communities with disabilities. He also recommended the redevelopment of strategic areas such as Siring Tendean, the Kilometer Zero Tower, tourist areas, terminals, and shopping centers, as public gathering spaces that urgently need improvement.
Through this critical perspective, Lambung Mangkurat University affirms its role as an academic institution that focuses not only on education and research but also actively contributes to providing science-based recommendations for more inclusive urban development. The expertise of ULM lecturers is expected to serve as a reference for policymakers in realizing a Banjarmasin that is welcoming to all its residents.
