For Train Users, This News from Bantul Sparks Hope Again

News about the potential revival of a railway line in Bantul, Special Region of Yogyakarta, may sound like a local issue. However, for some people, especially those familiar with train travel, this is more than just talk. It is a hope slowly coming back to life. Amid the dominance of private vehicles and increasing road congestion in many areas, trains have always held a special place in the hearts of the public. They are not just a mode of transport but also an experience, offering calmer, more reliable, and often more humane journeys. The Bantul Regency Government has warmly welcomed the proposal from Gusti Kanjeng Ratu Mangkubumi of the Yogyakarta Palace regarding the opportunity to develop railway lines to the area. “In principle, if there is such an initiative from DIY (Yogyakarta Palace), we will certainly welcome it, because if there is a more representative mass transportation mode, we will be pleased,” said Bantul Regency Secretary Agus Budirahardja in Bantul on Tuesday. According to him, such mass transportation is considered helpful to the community. Moreover, in Bantul, there is the Trans Jogja public transport service that has been operating for a long time and is well utilised by the public. The secretary stated that the discourse on reviving the railway line in Bantul has existed for several years, but its realisation must go through detailed studies first. “It will definitely involve detailed studies, especially regarding feasibility and so on, including calculations of utilisation by the public,” he said. According to him, railway investment requires substantial funding, so the Bantul Regency Government cannot provide such an idea due to budget constraints. “Building and operating a railway requires a large budget, so if there is an initiative from the centre and DIY for the railway to reach Bantul, we will welcome it with joy,” he said. Therefore, the local government supports and assists with matters needed if the plan to develop the railway line to Bantul begins to be implemented.