Priok KRL Deployed on Red Line; Commuters Hope for Rapid Return of INKA Trains

KAI Commuter is utilising train sets from the Jakarta Kota-Tanjung Priok line to address the shortage of KRL (Commuter Line) units on the Jakarta-Bogor route. Passengers, often referred to as ‘anker’ (train enthusiasts/commuters), are hoping that the INKA-manufactured trains can resume operations soon to reduce overcrowding.

This sentiment was expressed by a commuter named Ridwan, who feels that the addition of current train sets has not yet significantly impacted passenger density on the Jakarta-Bogor route. He expressed hope that the 12-car INKA trains could be deployed as soon as possible.

“In the morning, around 7 am, it is still quite full. This is because the ones being maintained are the INKA units that previously derailed. They are not yet back in service to transport more passengers,” said Ridwan at Manggarai Station, South Jakarta, on Wednesday (16/09/2026).

“The current units rely on older Japanese models, which are still insufficient because the space is somewhat narrow compared to the INKA or Chinese models, which offer more spacious interiors,” he added.

Ridwan hopes that newer KRL models will be increased, believing that larger capacities could alleviate congestion during rush hours. “If possible, more new models like the INKA or Chinese ones should be provided, as the Japanese models are quite cramped. It would be better if new trains were increased.”

Another commuter, Dita, noted that carriages were extremely crowded during the reduction of 17 KRL trips on the Jakarta-Bogor line between 7-9 September. She mentioned that congestion began to ease after train sets from the Priok route were used to ‘assist’ the Jakarta-Bogor route starting 10 September.

“There is a noticeable difference. Now, in the morning, it is not as crowded,” said Dita at Manggarai Station, South Jakarta, on Wednesday (16/09/2026).

Dita, who regularly commutes to and from Citayam, stated that the current waiting time between trains is approximately 2-3 minutes. She noted that waiting times had exceeded 5 minutes during the service reduction period from 7-9 September.

“When heading home, there is a train arriving every few minutes. It is not like before, when you had to wait more than 5 minutes. Now, there is definitely a train every 2 to 3 minutes,” she said.