Choosing KRL for Family Visits, Passengers Hope for Special Family Cards
JAKARTA - Several passengers choose the Kereta Rel Listrik (KRL) as their mode of transportation, both for family visits and holidays during the Eid al-Fitr 2026 period. The reliability of schedules and comfort are the main reasons residents opt for this rail-based transport. “Because it’s more economical. Nowadays, the train conditions are not like before, hot and crowded, stuffy. Now it’s comfortable, safe, comfortable, and cool,” said Anila (34) when met by Kompas.com at Tanah Abang Station, Central Jakarta, on Monday (23/3/2026). She decided to use the KRL before continuing her itinerary of visiting a water park in Depok, West Java, with her child. Another passenger, Ayu (37), also utilises the KRL for family visits as well as sightseeing in the Ragunan area. She admits to frequently using the KRL because its fares are far more affordable than other modes of transportation. “I’m happy because KRL transport is cheaper than others. For example, taking an online taxi is already very expensive compared to taking the KRL,” explained Ayu, who was travelling with Anila at the time. Besides the cost factor, the easy accessibility of the KRL from various points in the Jabodetabek area is a primary consideration. The efficiency of travel time during the Eid holiday period, which is usually marked by road congestion, also adds value for passengers. Although feeling comfortable, both Ayu and Anila assess that the current KRL ticketing payment system is still not practical for passengers travelling with large families. The requirement to have one card per person is considered troublesome. “If a family has many children, sometimes they need many cards. That’s quite complicated,” said Anila. She hopes that in the future, the management can provide special family cards that can be used for several passengers at once in a single transaction. This is seen as very helpful for family mobility during the holiday season. “If possible, one card can be for several people, so it’s not difficult to tap the card,” said Anila.