Electrification of Rangkasbitung–Merak Boosts Connectivity and Growth in New Areas
Weekends always have stories. Some seek to unwind, others explore new places, and many continue their journey to Sumatra Island using mass transportation. This mobility keeps moving, and trains serve as an affordable and comfortable travel option.
PT Kereta Api Indonesia (Persero) records show a consistent growth trend in KRL usage on the Rangkasbitung line. In 2022, there were 43,317,716 passengers, increasing to 62,085,471 in 2023, then 69,999,362 in 2024, and rising again to 77,552,716 in 2025. From January to March 2026, the number has reached 20,197,205 passengers.
This growth illustrates how the Rangkasbitung line is developing as a vital route supporting mobility in the expanding Jakarta buffer zones.
KAI Vice President of Corporate Communication Anne Purba stated that strengthening services on this line is the result of collaboration, including with the Directorate General of Railways (DJKA) of the Ministry of Transportation.
“The electrification of the Tanah Abang–Rangkasbitung line has now reached 72.769 km of track with double lines. This development is progressing alongside DJKA of the Ministry of Transportation, including improvements to infrastructure and KRL travel speeds,” said Anne.
These enhancements allow KRL services to operate up to 12-car trains (SF 12), an increase from the previous 8 to 10 cars per train. Passenger capacity is larger, making journeys more comfortable for customers.
Infrastructure and operational developments continue, including refinements to the electrification network. These improvements contribute to more efficient spacing between trips, increasing frequency and shortening customer waiting times.
On the other hand, passenger movement on the Rangkasbitung–Merak line is also growing. In 2023, local train services handled 3,617,478 passengers, rising to 4,269,154 in 2024, and further to 4,463,498 in 2025. From January to March 2026, the number has reached 1,134,514.
This line also offers the Kereta Petani Pedagang service, which served 11,349 users in the first quarter of 2026. This service supports community economic activities, particularly for small businesses transporting agricultural produce for sale.
“Passenger movement on this line continues to grow and interconnect. Future developments are expected to open broader access, encourage the growth of more integrated residential areas, strengthen industrial and distribution activities, and support tourism connectivity to coastal and inter-island areas,” Anne continued.
Currently, people can travel from Tanah Abang to Merak at very affordable rates. The KRL Commuter Line from Tanah Abang to Rangkasbitung costs Rp8,000, followed by the local train from Rangkasbitung to Merak at Rp3,000.
From Merak Station, the journey can continue via ferry to Bakauheni Port. Regular ferry fares are around Rp23,000 per person, while express ferries cost about Rp85,000 per person.
This sequence of travel provides increasingly accessible inter-island access. Upon arriving at Bakauheni, the journey can proceed to various destinations in Lampung, from beaches with clean sand, serene coastal atmospheres, to local delicacies like seruit and seafood dishes.
“Trains are part of the ongoing societal journeys, from urban areas to connected regions. The hope is that this connectivity continues to develop, allowing more people to experience ease in travelling,” Anne concluded.