Neglected railroad

I went to Magelang, Central Java, recently via Purwokerto and Wonosobo. Wonosobo is a very fertile area with fresh air and cool climate. Vegetables such cabbage, potatoes and tobacco are among the main agricultural products.

On either side of the road, especially between Banjarnegara and Wonosobo, I saw beautiful scenery, picturesque valleys and the clear river, Serayu.

Unfortunately, those beauties are spoiled by the nasty look of ruins of unused railway stations and neglected railroads. I lamented the situation. How can the railway company afford to ignore such a valuable asset? It has been said that the economic crisis forced the authority to curtail operations, in order to avoid financial losses.

Actually there are good reasons for keeping the railroad functioning.

* To help the farmers transport their merchandise.

* To promote tourism, because tourists wanting to visit the Dieng plateau would find it more interesting to enjoy the beautiful panoramas by riding in a train.

* To reduce traffic congestion.

My suggestion is that the government make a concerted effort to restore the 90-km railroad from Purwokerto to Wonosobo, or leave the business to the private sector.

HM HADI S

Cimahi, West Java