KAI Commissioner Provides Explanation Regarding KRL and Argo Bromo Train Collision in Bekasi

BEKASI, KOMPAS.com - The Chairman of PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI), Said Aqil Siradj, provided an explanation regarding the collision between the KRL Commuter Line and the Long-Distance Train (KAJJ) Argo Bromo Anggrek at Bekasi Timur Station on Monday night (27/4/2026). Said stated that the incident began with a vehicle breaching a level crossing, ultimately disrupting the train’s journey on that track. This situation then triggered a chain of events leading to the accident. He explained that, in a situation where the train is travelling at high speed, the braking system does not allow for an abrupt stop like vehicles on the road. Therefore, when there is an obstacle on the rails, the risk of collision is difficult to avoid. According to him, the damage to the sensor actually occurred due to the vehicle crossing the rails. “No (signalling error), because there are many (factors), there was that taxi and then the KRL stopped, that’s why the sensor was damaged, error,” said Said. He suspected that the electric taxi experienced a disruption or stalled while crossing the level crossing, at a time when the distance to the train was already too close. “It could already be seen, but it’s just not possible for the train to brake. It’s not possible for the train to brake. So the taxi that crossed is at fault,” he stated. Furthermore, Said emphasised that this incident must serve as a lesson for all road users, especially at level crossings. “This becomes a valuable lesson for all of us, both for car drivers, vehicle riders, and train drivers; everyone must take this very valuable lesson. Because it wouldn’t happen if we are careful or truly vigilant,” he said. Previously, the collision occurred between the KRL on the Cikarang route number PLB 5568A and the Argo Bromo Anggrek train on the Gambir–Surabaya Pasar Turi route around 20:52 WIB at the platform of Bekasi Timur Station KM 28+920. Meanwhile, 240 passengers on the Argo Bromo Anggrek were reported safe.