KAI Increases Kaligung Train Capacity to Support Public Mobility During 31st National MTQ
Jakarta (ANTARA) - PT Kereta Api Indonesia (Persero) Daop 4 Semarang is introducing additional carrying capacity for the Kaligung train service to and from Tegal Station throughout September 202cap6. This move is intended to meet the increased travel demands of the public and support smooth mobility towards Semarang during the 31st National Musabaqah Tilawatil Quran (MTQ), which is scheduled to take place from 12–19 September 2026.
The 31st National MTQ, held in Semarang, is expected to attract approximately 7,000 participants from various regions. This event is anticipated to drive up public mobility, particularly from the Tegal area and its surroundings towards Semarang.
Luqman Arif, Manager of Public Relations for KAI Daop 4 Semarang, stated that the capacity increase for the Kaligung train is part of KAI’s readiness to anticipate the rise in travel needs during September 2026.
“The Kaligung train is one of the transport services widely used by the people of Tegal and surrounding areas to travel to Semarang and other parts of the North Coast (Pantura). Through this capacity increase, KAI aims to provide more options for safe, comfortable, and punctual travel for the public,” said Luqman.
Adding One New Generation Economy Carriage, Capacity Increases by 80 Seats per Trip
Throughout September 2026, several Kaligung train services will receive an additional New Generation economy carriage with a capacity of 80 seats. With this addition, the Kaligung train configuration, which previously consisted of 2 executive class carriages and 6 New Generation economy carriages, will increase to 2 executive class carriages and 7 New Generation economy carriages.
For services operating to and from Tegal Station, the capacity increase will apply daily from 1–30 September 2026 for:
• KA 215A Kaligung (Semarang Poncol–Tegal);
• KA 219 Kaligung (Semarang Poncol–Tegal); and
• KA 220 Kaligung (Tegal–Semarang Poncol).
Additionally, extra capacity will be provided for the following facultative Kaligung services:
• KA 221F (Semarang Poncol–Tegal); and
• KA 222F (Tegal–Semarang Poncol),
operating on 3–6 September, 10–13 September, 17–20 September, and 24–27 September 2026.
With the addition of one carriage, every Kaligung service receiving this capacity adjustment will gain up to 80 additional seats.
Kaligung Train Strengthens Tegal–Semarang Connectivity
Luqman noted that the Kaligung train plays a vital role in supporting community connectivity along the Pantura route, specifically the travel link between Tegal and Semarang.
“This capacity increase for the Kaligung train is a form of KAI’s commitment to providing public transport services that can meet mobility needs, including during national events such as the 31st National MTQ,” said Luqman.
Residents of Tegal who have activities in Semarang during this period can utilise the Kaligung train as a travel option with more predictable travel times.
KAI Daop 4 Semarang advises passengers travelling during September 2026, particularly between 12–19 September 2026, to book tickets early via the Access by KAI application or other official KAI sales channels.
“KAI remains committed to providing the best service to the public. We invite the people of Tegal and surrounding areas to plan their journeys well and utilise train services as a safe, comfortable, and sustainable mode of transport,” Luqman concluded.