Supporting Eid Homecoming Traffic, KAI North Sumatra Regional Division Distributes 11,118 KL of Fuel for Road Transport

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) Divisi Regional I Sumatra Utara is strengthening its strategic role in the national transport ecosystem by channelling at least 11,118 kilolitres (KL) of fuel oil to ensure the smooth flow of Eid homecoming traffic in 2026. This step is aimed at maintaining energy supply stability for road transport modes experiencing a surge in vehicle volumes during the holiday transport period. Acting Head of Public Relations for KAI Divre I Sumatra Utara, Anwar Yuli Prastyo, explained that the distribution took place over eight days, from 11 to 18 March 2026. A total of 327 tank wagons were deployed via the Labuhan–Siantar and Labuhan–Kisaran routes to ensure timely energy distribution to critical points. ‘Fuel distribution via rail is a vital part of the energy supply chain for land transport. This contribution directly impacts the smooth homecoming flow and public mobility in North Sumatra,’ said Anwar on Thursday (19/3). Distribution of fuel focused on strategic areas in North Sumatra. Anwar detailed that the distribution was concentrated on two main logistics routes. First, towards the Kisaran fuel depot to meet energy needs in Asahan Regency, Batu Bara Regency, and Tanjungbalai City. Second, supplies were allocated to Pematangsiantar to support fuel stocks in Pematangsiantar, Simalungun, Central Tapanuli, up to Samosir Island. This distribution pattern is designed to ensure energy resilience, both in economic centres and major tourist routes that are homecoming destinations. ‘Rail transport has advantages in large carrying capacity and timeliness, making it highly efficient in supporting logistics distribution amid dense road traffic,’ he added. Passenger transport for KAI Divre I Sumut shows positive trend. In addition to focusing on logistics transport, KAI Divre I Sumatra Utara also recorded a positive trend in passenger services. Over the period from 11 to 19 March 2026, the total customers served reached 75,266 people. The peak density of homecoming traffic occurred on H-3 Eid (18/3) with 10,930 passengers. Meanwhile, on H-2 Eid or Thursday (19/3), 9,970 passengers were recorded as having been dispatched to various destinations. These figures are predicted to continue increasing as tickets are still available on several travel routes. ‘We see extraordinary enthusiasm from the public, especially for the KA Sribilah Utama and Sribilah Fakultatif services which are the favourite choices for returning home,’ said Anwar. KAI Divre I Sumatra Utara ensures all operational aspects, both passenger and goods transport, run optimally during the Eid transport period. ‘Our commitment is to provide safe, secure, and reliable transport services throughout this Eid transport period,’ said Anwar.