Jakarta’s crumbling infrastructure turns into a chaotic labyrinth the moment rain pours down, drowning the city in gridlock. But it’s not just the floods — the chaos is compounded by disorganized bus stops, lax regulations on vehicle ownership, and a glaring absence of authority during every traffic standstill.

Photos captured between February and May 2025 depict the same area, known as GBK 7, or Gelora Bung Karno Gate 7. It serves as an entrance to a famous sports stadium that often hosts concerts, festivals, and more. This entrance is the only gate accessible from Jl. Jendral Sudirman main road. During rush hour, around 5–7 p.m., many people wait here for a bus, despite the lack of an official bus stop. Nevertheless, buses stop because of the demand from people waiting. This gate is also near an MRT exit, making it easier to catch a bus if you’re a multi-mode commuter, with the nearest legal bus stop being a 3-minute walk away.

While people wait, others seize the opportunity to profit. During rain, vendors sell cheap raincoats. In dry weather, street food sellers on bikes, known as Abang Siomay (selling local versions of dumplings) or Starling (Starbucks Keliling), offer instant coffee.

This area tells a haunting truth: nothing has changed. The same chaos reigns, unyielding and indifferent.

This area is only a small fraction of Jakarta’s chaotic complexity during rush hour. There are many spots even more chaotic than this, especially when it’s raining.

Yet, amid this overwhelming turmoil, the people of Jakarta rise day after day, navigating this urban storm with unwavering grit.

To me, those who work in this relentless city aren’t just commuters — they’re warriors of resilience, forging ahead in a system that demands nothing short of miracles. Their perseverance isn’t just admirable; it’s a raw, living testament to human strength in the face of chaos that time itself refuses to heal.

All photos taken with: Sigma Fp + Zeiss Planar 85mm F1.4 ZF & Brightin Star 28mm F2.8 M Mount