Chemical Plant Explosion in Cilegon Disrupts Merak-Rangkas Train Service

KAI Commuter stated on X (@CommuterLine) on Monday, 25 May 2026, that the Commuter Line Merak (314) service between Rangkasbitung and Merak experienced delays due to chemical smoke following an explosion at a factory site between Krenceng and Merak railway sections. KAI Commuter Indonesia (KCI) apologised for the delays and inconvenience to passengers, confirming that services had resumed normal operations. ‘Commuter Line Merak (314) has now departed again,’ it said.

Police have investigated the site of the chemical plant explosion in Gerem, Cilegon, which emitted a pungent odour. Officers from Cilegon Police Residency’s Criminal Investigation Unit (Satreskrim) visited PT MCCI chemical plant to conduct an investigation. ‘We’re currently at the scene, checking things first,’ said Cilegon Police Residency’s Criminal Investigation Unit Chief, AKP Yoga Tama, on Monday. Satreskrim deployed forensic officers to determine the cause of the explosion, with ongoing examinations at the site.

The explosion occurred around 2:30 PM WIB, with loud bangs and sirens heard by nearby residents. White smoke filled the air around the plant. ‘I only felt the explosion and heard sirens. It came from PT MCCI, and the smell was like burning tyres around Gerem,’ said Faturrohmi, whose home is about 3 kilometres from the chemical plant.