Expert highlights importance of central-local synergy to address illegal level crossings

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Transportation expert Djoko Setjowarno has reminded that synergy between the central government and local governments (pemda) is necessary to address the issue of illegal level crossings, particularly in DKI Jakarta. “So the responsibility is clear. If it’s on a national road (it’s the responsibility of) the central government through the Ministry of Public Works. If it’s pemda, according to each respective pemda. There are provinces, regencies, and cities,” said Djoko when contacted in Jakarta on Sunday. Based on data from PT KAI, there are 432 at-grade level crossings in the operational area of Daop 1 Jakarta, which spans from Banten to Cikampek. In response to this, Djoko emphasised that illegal crossings must be closed without compromise. This needs to be done to improve public safety. Therefore, the role of the central government and local governments is very necessary so that this problem can be resolved quickly and optimally. “Basically, illegal crossings must be closed. No compromise for those 138 points,” said Djoko Setjowarno. For this reason, Djoko hopes that the budget for transportation safety will not be cut. Because, according to him, the intention to improve transportation safety will be in vain without budget support. “Public safety is a shared responsibility, not just a fiscal burden on the regions. Therefore, support from the national budget for training costs and certainty of P3K status for crossing guards is an absolute key to maintaining the sustainability of lives on railway tracks,” explained Djoko Setjowarno.