Public Warned Against Gathering on Railway Lines During Ramadan in West Sumatra
PT Kereta Api Indonesia (Persero) Regional Division II Sumatra Barat (KAI Divre II Sumbar) has called upon the public to refrain from conducting activities in the vicinity of railway tracks, including waiting to break fast during Ramadan (ngabuburit).
Head of Public Relations for KAI Divre II Sumbar, Reza Shahab, stressed that railway track areas constitute restricted zones designated exclusively for railway operations and are not intended for public activities.
“Every Ramadan we still find residents gathering, sitting, or playing near the tracks, whether before sunset or during the pre-dawn meal. We remind the public that railway tracks are not public spaces for activities. The risk of accidents is very significant and can endanger human lives,” Reza stated on Tuesday (3 March).
The prohibition on conducting activities on railway tracks is regulated under Law No. 23 of 2007 concerning Railways. Article 181, paragraph (1) states that any person is prohibited from being in the railway benefit space and from performing actions such as dragging, moving, placing, or transferring goods on top of the tracks, or using railway tracks for purposes other than railway transport.
Penalties for violations of these regulations are stipulated in Article 199 of Law No. 23 of 2007, namely a maximum prison sentence of three months or a maximum fine of Rp15,000,000.
As a preventative measure, KAI Divre II Sumbar consistently conducts safety awareness campaigns among the public, including at schools and community organisations, to enhance understanding of the dangers of conducting activities near railway tracks.
In addition, security along the entire track has been strengthened through increased patrols and deployment of security personnel at points deemed to be at risk. KAI also coordinates with local authorities to maintain security and public order in the vicinity of railway operational areas.
Entering the 2026 Eid transport period, KAI Divre II Sumbar has intensified surveillance by conducting safety briefings, routine inspections, and direct field checks to ensure that all operational aspects proceed safely and orderly.
Security personnel have also been stationed at several strategic locations, particularly at unguarded level crossings with high vehicle traffic. Special attention is also given to Special Attention Areas (DAPSUS) that have potential risks of security and safety incidents.
Reza emphasised that railway travel safety is not only the responsibility of KAI, but also of all segments of society.
“We invite the public to jointly maintain safety by refraining from conducting activities near railway tracks. If you witness suspicious activities or those that could be dangerous, immediately report them to KAI personnel or the relevant authorities,” he explained.
During the Eid transport period, KAI again reminds road users to always be cautious when crossing level crossings. Prioritise railway traffic and never attempt to cross level crossing barriers for the sake of collective safety.
“Safety is the top priority and requires support from all segments of society,” Reza concluded.