Legislator Urges Railway Modernisation and KAI-INKA Synergy
Doni Akbar, a member of Commission VI of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), emphasised the importance of improving data quality, modernising facilities, and strengthening synergy within the national railway industry during a Hearing Meeting with PT Kereta Api Indonesia (PT KAI) and PT Industri Kereta Api (PT INKA) on Wednesday (3/6).
He stated that future meetings should provide more comprehensive data, particularly regarding the construction of rail networks and financial reports. The development of rail network length and capacity serves as a primary indicator for measuring the progress of the national railway sector, making accurate and transparent data essential for oversight and policy formulation.
Furthermore, the legislator questioned the companies’ strategies for managing railway rolling stock that has been in operation for over 25 years. He requested explanations regarding the effectiveness of fleet rejuvenation programmes, the lifespan of rehabilitated assets, and the considerations between modernising, repairing, or completely replacing equipment to ensure public safety and service quality.
Regarding the adoption of new technologies, such as the Battery Electric Multiple Unit (BEMU) programme, he noted that clear parameters are required to measure implementation efficiency. Any adoption of new technology must deliver tangible benefits, including increased operational efficiency, cost savings, and improved public transport service quality.
Doni also requested more comprehensive financial and performance reports so that the DPR can gain a complete overview of the companies’ financial health, investment effectiveness, and future development prospects. He expressed his hope that the national railway sector could become more modern, safe, and efficient, serving as a backbone for transportation and a driver for national industrial growth.
To this end, Doni expressed support for various strategic programmes undertaken by KAI and INKA. This includes accelerating the management of level crossings by closing illegal crossings, securing priority routes, and strengthening coordination between central government, local governments, and relevant stakeholders. He also encouraged financial support for providing crossing guards, substations, barriers, sirens, CCTV, and other safety equipment.
Finally, he urged the immediate modernisation of operational safety systems through the implementation of Automatic Train Protection (ATP) technology, the strengthening of rail infrastructure with higher axle load standards, and the use of modern train protection technology to prevent accidents similar to the recent incident in Bekasi.