Barapati Switching Train Boosts Coal Logistics Efficiency in South Sumatra

Supported by 1,125 BM 54 flat wagons, a single trainset comprising 60 wagons can carry up to 3,000 tonnes of cargo per journey. PT Kereta Api Indonesia (Persero) is strengthening the operational efficiency of its coal logistics services in South Sumatra through the operation of the Barapati Switching train on the Tanjung Enim Baru–Kertapati round-trip route. The service commenced operations on 8 July 2026 to support the distribution of coal belonging to PT Bukit Asam Tbk. KAI Vice President Corporate Communication Anne Purba stated that the Barapati Switching operation is designed to increase trainset productivity through greater loading capacity on each journey. The Barapati Switching train reinforces operational efficiency as it can serve large volumes of cargo using a single trainset. This operation supports journey regularity, asset optimisation, and the continuity of coal distribution from Tanjung Enim. In its initial phase, the Barapati Switching train operates with a formation of 55 flat wagons pulled by one CC205 locomotive. This long trainset has a larger capacity compared to the regular Barapati train, which typically operates with around 32 to 33 wagons. The wagons used are BM 54 type flat wagons, where BM 54 denotes a loading capacity of up to 54 tonnes per wagon unit. In a full trainset consisting of 60 BM 54 flat wagons, the formation can carry up to 3,000 tonnes of cargo in a single journey. This capacity supports the consolidation of large volumes of cargo while optimising the use of locomotives, wagons, track, and travel time. The greater the load that can be served in one journey, the more optimal the utilisation of assets and operating schedules. This efficiency is carried out while considering track capability, braking systems, trainset strength, locomotive readiness, and railway travel safety standards. The operational plan for the Barapati Switching train is to serve the Tanjung Enim Baru–Kramasan round-trip route. During the completion and operational preparation of the Train Unloading Station at Kramasan, journeys are temporarily directed to Kertapati. Coal unloading is carried out through alternative unloading facilities that have been prepared. This arrangement ensures distribution services continue while the unloading facility at Kramasan is still under completion. The operation of the Barapati Switching train is supported by a procurement programme for 1,125 BM 54 flat wagons. By mid-July 2026, 1,080 units had arrived in Palembang to support logistics services in the Southern Sumatra region. The remaining 45 units are still at PT INKA’s facility in Banyuwangi and will be delivered in stages. The availability of these assets 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 transported 26,534,095 tonnes of coal nationally. This significant volume demonstrates the railway’s role in serving the distribution of bulk commodities through scheduled, high-capacity journeys. According to Anne, increasing trainset capacity also brings efficiency to the overall logistics system. Distribution by rail helps consolidate cargo, maintain delivery schedule accuracy, and reduce the need for large numbers of heavy vehicles on the 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. KAI continues to coordinate with partners so that capacity increases align with the readiness of assets, infrastructure, loading and unloading facilities, and operational safety.