KAI Divre II West Sumatra Closes Illegal Level Crossing in Paulimah–Indarung
PT Kereta Api Indonesia (Persero) Divisi Regional II Sumatra Barat has once again closed an illegal level crossing as part of efforts to improve railway journey safety and for road users. Railway level crossings remain one of the high-risk points for traffic accidents.
This closure took place at the illegal level crossing at KM 12+600 on the Paulimah–Indarung line on Thursday (9/4). This step is part of the implementation of Ministry of Transportation Regulation No. 94 of 2018 on Enhancing Safety at Level Crossings between Railway Tracks and Roads, particularly Articles 5 and 6.
Head of Communications for KAI Divre II West Sumatra, Reza Shahab, explained that the illegal crossing, approximately 2 metres wide, has been used by pedestrians and is deemed to pose a safety risk to both the public and railway operations.
“This closure is a form of KAI’s commitment to improving safety, as well as following up on coordination and agreements with local residents and relevant agencies,” he said.
The regulation stipulates that every level crossing must be managed according to the road class and government authority, with periodic evaluations conducted. Evaluation outcomes may include upgrading safety facilities, constructing non-level crossings, or closing crossings.
The closure event was attended by the Secretary of Padang City, Raju Minropa, along with his staff, representatives from Class II Padang Port Authority, Padang City Transportation Agency, West Sumatra Branch of PT Jasa Raharja, the Sub-District Head of Pauh, the Head of South Limau Manis Ward, local community elements, and community leaders.
The closure proceeded safely, orderly, and smoothly thanks to the support and collaboration of all involved parties.
KAI Divre II West Sumatra records that there are currently 121 official level crossings and 156 unofficial ones in its operational area, which are continuously evaluated.
Throughout 2025, KAI, together with stakeholders, has closed 18 illegal level crossings. Meanwhile, from 2026 to date, closures have been carried out on 2 illegal crossings.
This step is part of KAI’s ongoing efforts to enhance railway journey safety and minimise accident potential at level crossings.
Reza emphasised that there are three main aspects to achieving safety at railway level crossings: infrastructure, law enforcement, and culture.
On the infrastructure side, evaluations of crossings must be conducted periodically by the government, involving KAI and relevant agencies. This aligns with Railway Law No. 23 of 2007, Article 94 paragraph (2), which states that the closure of level crossings is carried out by the government or local government.
“Efforts to close level crossings require support from all parties. Safety for railway journeys and road traffic is a shared responsibility, not just one party’s,” Reza explained.
On the law enforcement side, firm actions are needed against violations at level crossings to provide a deterrent effect and increase road user discipline. These provisions are regulated in the Road Traffic Law, which includes criminal sanctions for violators, including the obligation to stop when signals sound or barriers begin to close.
Meanwhile, on the cultural side, public awareness is a key factor in creating safety. Road users are urged to always obey signs and signals when crossing level crossings.
KAI Divre II West Sumatra continues to coordinate with local government and communities to close illegal crossings that pose risks, while ensuring understanding and support from residents.
KAI also urges the public to only use official crossings equipped with safety facilities and not to open or utilise illegal crossings.
“We urge all members of the public to always be disciplined and comply with rules when crossing level crossings. Accidents not only harm road users but also impact railway operations,” Reza concluded.