Signal problem disrupts train service

JAKARTA: Train service between the Gambir and Manggarai stations was disrupted on Friday due to problems with train signals, causing long delays for commuters and long distance travelers alike.

"The problem was caused by a break in the tracks between Gambir and the nearby Gondangdia station," the spokesman of PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) Greater Jakarta division, Zainal Abidin, told The Jakarta Post.

"This then caused all the automated electronic signals between Gambir and Manggarai to turn red. So, in this case, only one train can run along the tracks at a time," he added.

Zainal said normally six trains could run along the track at intervals of between seven and 10 minutes.

Repairs were started immediately after the problems were reported at about 6:45 a.m., with work finishing at about 8:35 a.m.

"But due to congestion at other stations, traffic was back to normal at about 11 a.m.," said Zainal. -- JP