New train to operate

SURABAYA: The state-run railway company, Perumka, will launch a new express train next month to serve the busy Surabaya-Jakarta route.

The train, Semberani, will be launched on Nov. 10, when Surabaya celebrates Heroes Day.

Soedarjono, chief of Perumka's marketing division, told Antara that the train is meant to accommodate the rising number of people wanting to travel by rail.

It will take 10 hours for the 364-seat train to cover the 850 kilometer distance, Soedarjono said.

"We hope that Sembrani's rate of reservation will be higher than 94 percent," he said. (05)