Still 1,089 Illegal Crossings, KAI: They Must Be Closed Immediately

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (Persero) records 3,888 level crossings in the Java and Sumatra regions, of which 1,089 are illegal crossings. “This data indicates that the crossing spaces still have a level of risk that needs to be managed consistently. The closure of illegal crossings is part of the arrangement so that interactions between train journeys and road traffic can occur more safely,” said KAI Vice President of Corporate Communication Anne Purba in an official statement on Friday (1/5/2026). The number of illegal crossings has come under scrutiny following a train accident involving a KRL and the KA Argo Bromo Anggrek at Bekasi Timur Station on Monday (27/4/2026). In response, Anne emphasised that safety at level crossings is a serious concern requiring consistent handling. The presence of illegal crossings at various points poses a significant risk because they lack adequate security and are outside official regulations, thus limiting the safe space between train operations and community activities. These efforts are aimed at creating a more managed safe space and reducing the potential for accidents at crossings. Furthermore, KAI President Director Bobby Rasyidin stated that every crossing must be in a condition that meets safety standards to ensure protection for the public and train journeys. “Every crossing point has safety implications. For locations that do not meet the requirements, handling is carried out together with the government through applicable mechanisms, including closures. This step is taken to safeguard public safety and train operations,” said Bobby. This measure is directed at limiting non-standard safety crossing spaces and directing the public to safer crossing points. KAI, along with the Ministry of Transportation and local governments, has also addressed 564 crossing points through closures or upgrades to non-level crossings, such as building flyovers and underpasses. These efforts continue in line with field needs. This approach is aimed at building collective awareness that safety at crossings is closely linked to a culture of traffic discipline.