Solutions for Level Crossings, Expert: Close Illegal Points, Strengthen Law and Infrastructure

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - Accidents at railway level crossings continue to be a recurring problem that claims lives every year. Indonesian railway expert Joni Martinus believes that comprehensive steps involving the government, operators, and the public are needed to mitigate these risks. According to Joni, there are at least three main approaches that can be taken to reduce the number of accidents, namely through infrastructure improvements, law enforcement, and changes in safety culture. From the infrastructure side, he emphasises the importance of regular evaluations of all level crossings, including the possibility of closure or upgrading safety standards. “Evaluation of level crossings must be carried out by the government involving KAI and other relevant parties on a regular basis, because in principle, level crossings can be made non-level, closed, or have their safety improved,” he said virtually on Monday night (4/5/2026). “Therefore, I welcome the policy of the President of the Republic of Indonesia who is ready to allocate funds of Rp 4 trillion to fix level crossings,” Joni stated. Nevertheless, he considers the most effective solution to be the elimination of illegal or unauthorised crossings that lack adequate safety systems. Meanwhile, from the cultural side, he highlights the still low public awareness in complying with traffic signs, including the habit of forcing through barriers. “Strict action is needed against every violator of signs at level crossings to create a deterrent effect and increase discipline among road users,” he stressed. He reminded that the provisions in Law No. 22 of 2009 on Road Traffic and Transportation require drivers to slow down and be alert when approaching level crossings. In 2024, there were 213 incidents with 123 fatalities, while in 2025 there were around 171 accidents with 106 lives lost. “These are truly concerning figures,” he said. Since 2017 until April 2026, PT Kereta Api Indonesia (Persero) has regulated as many as 2,220 illegal crossings. This step is part of efforts to create a safer and more controlled transportation system, while reducing accident risks at vulnerable points.