MTI Transport Expert: Level Crossings Must Be Eliminated

Jakarta - An academic from the Civil Engineering programme at Soegijapranata Catholic University and advisor to the Indonesian Transport Society (MTI), Djoko Setijowarno, has emphasised that level crossings in densely populated corridors must be eliminated. He reasoned that with high train frequencies, the closure times at these crossings would become longer, potentially causing vehicle queues. Therefore, according to Djoko, the construction of non-level crossings such as underpasses and overpasses needs to be prioritised based on risk. In addition, the separation of operational tracks must be a priority. Electric Rail Trains (KRL) and Long-Distance Trains (KAJJ) have fundamentally different characteristics. Djoko stated that completing the Jakarta-Cikarang Double-Double Track project is not only important for increasing capacity but also for safety. In the medium term, this concept needs to be expanded along with the development of KRL services to further areas. “Until separation is fully realised, speed regulations and distances between trains must provide adequate safety margins. This will result in reduced rail capacity and the need to revise train schedules,” said Djoko. “Cross-sector coordination is required to ensure the track environment remains safe and fit for purpose,” he stressed. Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono highlighted the numerous unsafe rail level crossings, following the tragedy of the KAJJ collision with the Commuterline at Bekasi Timur Station on Monday night (27/04/2026). The General Chairman of the Democrat Party said he would conduct an investigation. “There are still quite a few level crossings, where the rail lines coincide with road transport routes, meaning roads crossing the rails. We will investigate,” said AHY while inspecting Bekasi Timur Station on Tuesday afternoon (28/04/2026). As a handling measure, AHY mentioned the construction of flyovers, so that level crossings could be eliminated.