Barapati Switching Train Boosts Coal Logistics Efficiency in South Sumatra
Supported by 1,125 BM 54 flat wagons, a single trainset of 60 wagons is capable of carrying loads of up to 3,000 tonnes per trip.
Jakarta (ANTARA) - PT Kereta Api Indonesia (Persero) is strengthening the operational efficiency of coal logistics services in South Sumatra through the operation of the Barapati Switching train on the Tanjung Enim Baru–Kertapati return route. The service began operating on 8 July 2026 to support the distribution of coal owned by PT Bukit Asam Tbk.
KAI Vice President Corporate Communication Anne Purba said the operation of the Barapati Switching train is designed to increase trainset productivity through greater load capacity on each journey.
“The Barapati Switching train strengthens operational efficiency because it can carry large volumes of cargo in a single trainset. This operation supports orderly journeys, optimisation of rolling stock, and the continuity of coal distribution from Tanjung Enim,” said Anne.
In the initial phase, the Barapati Switching train operates with a standard formation of 55 flat wagons hauled by a single CC205 locomotive. This long trainset has a greater capacity than the regular Barapati train, which typically operates with around 32 to 33 wagons.
The wagons used are BM 54-type flat wagons. The term BM 54 denotes a load capacity of up to 54 tonnes per wagon unit.
In a full trainset of 60 BM 54 flat wagons, the formation can carry loads of up to 3,000 tonnes in a single trip. This capacity supports the consolidation of large volumes of cargo while optimising the use of locomotives, wagons, tracks, and journey times.
“The greater the load that can be carried in one journey, the more optimal the utilisation of rolling stock and operating schedules. This efficiency is still carried out with due regard to track capability, braking systems, trainset strength, locomotive readiness, and railway safety standards,” said Anne.
Under its operational plan, the Barapati Switching train will serve the Tanjung Enim Baru–Kramasan return route. While the Train Unloading Station at Kramasan is being completed and prepared, journeys are temporarily directed towards Kertapati.
Coal unloading is carried out through alternative unloading facilities that have been prepared. This arrangement keeps distribution services running while the unloading facilities at Kramasan are still in the completion stage.
The operation of the Barapati Switching train is supported by a procurement programme of 1,125 BM 54 flat wagons. As of mid-July 2026, 1,080 units have arrived in Palembang to support logistics services in the Southern Sumatra region.
A further 45 units remain at the PT INKA facility in Banyuwangi and will be delivered in stages. The availability of this rolling stock will support the formation of trainsets according to operational needs and the readiness of partners’ loading and unloading facilities.
Throughout the first half of 2026, KAI served 26,534,095 tonnes of coal nationally. This large volume demonstrates the role of railways in distributing commodities in massive quantities through scheduled, high-capacity journeys.
According to Anne, the increase in trainset capacity also delivers efficiency across the logistics system as a whole. Rail distribution helps consolidate cargo, maintain delivery schedule accuracy, and reduce the need for large numbers of heavy vehicle journeys on public roads.
“The operation of the Barapati Switching train and the addition of BM 54 flat wagons strengthen the productivity of KAI’s logistics services in South Sumatra. We continue to coordinate with partners so that the increase in capacity can proceed in line with the readiness of rolling stock, infrastructure, loading and unloading facilities, and operational safety,” Anne concluded.