Guard Allegedly Asleep at Kediri Crossing, Truck Narrowly Avoids Train Collision
A railway level crossing keeper at Simpang Mengkreng, Purwoasri Sub-district, Kediri Regency, is suspected of having fallen asleep as the Brantas train passed through.
As a result of the incident, the crossing barrier was not closed, and a truck nearly collided with the train. Residents at the scene then took the initiative to stop the flow of vehicles to prevent an accident.
The incident occurred at crossing point JPL 303A, kilometre 213+705 on the Kertosono-Papar line, on Wednesday (22 July) at around 01.48 Western Indonesia Time. At the time, KA 152 Brantas on the Pasarsenen-Blitar route was passing through the location.
In a video circulating on social media, several residents can be seen directing traffic because the barrier had not been lowered. Some of them are also seen banging on the guard post to wake the officer suspected of sleeping.
A truck had almost crossed the tracks as the train went through. However, residents managed to stop the vehicle, avoiding a collision.
The train passed through safely, and there were no casualties or injuries in the incident.
PT Kereta Api Indonesia (Persero) Daop 7 Madiun confirmed the incident.
Based on preliminary examination, the crossing keeper was said to have failed to carry out security procedures properly, so the barrier was not closed as the train passed.
Public Relations Manager of KAI Daop 7 Madiun, Tohari, said that after receiving a report from the train crew, the company immediately coordinated with PPKA Kertosono, the Roads and Bridges (JJ) 7.3 Unit of Kertosono, and security personnel.
“The officer concerned was then able to resume duties under the direct supervision and accompaniment of JJ 7.3 Kertosono Unit personnel to ensure crossing security proceeds according to procedure,” Tohari said, quoted by detikJatim on Wednesday (22 July).
Tohari also conveyed an apology to the public for the incident, which caused concern.
“We apologise for the discomfort and worry caused by this incident. The safety of rail travel and road users is KAI’s top priority. We do not tolerate any form of violation of operational procedures that could potentially create safety risks,” he said.
He affirmed that the officer concerned has undergone guidance in accordance with applicable regulations. According to him, the incident also serves as material for a comprehensive evaluation to strengthen discipline, improve supervision, and ensure all officers perform their duties according to standard operating procedures.
“We will continue to strengthen guidance and supervision of all crossing keepers so that similar incidents do not happen again. KAI is committed to maintaining operational reliability and delivering services that prioritise safety,” he asserted.
KAI assured that the incident did not affect travel safety nor cause delays to the Brantas train. Nevertheless, the company stated that comprehensive evaluations will continue as part of efforts to improve service quality and maintain safe, secure, and reliable railway operations.
KAI also urged all road users to remain vigilant when crossing level crossings, whether guarded or unguarded, and whether equipped with barriers or not.
“The crossing barrier is not the primary safety device for road users, but merely an aid to secure rail journeys. Therefore, road users must still stop, look right and left, ensure the track is clear, and then give way to the train,” Tohari said.