Train Hits Minibus at Level Crossing Without Barriers in North Sumatra

The Petikemas train on the Belawan–Kuala Tanjung route struck a minibus at a level crossing without barriers at km 76+7/8 on the Bamban–Tebing Tinggi section, North Sumatra, on Saturday (23 May) around 08:31 WIB. Public Relations Manager Anwar Yuli Prastyo of PT KAI Divre I Sumut said evacuation was carried out promptly to restore a safe railway corridor. They also addressed the crossing to prevent a recurrence. ‘The engine driver is safe, but the locomotive sustained some material damage. After emergency handling, the Petikemas train could continue its journey at 08:45 WIB,’ he said. The driver/minibus was taken to Bhayangkara Tebing Tinggi Hospital for intensive medical care. ‘KAI Divre I Sumatra Utara expresses deep condolences to the victims and families; incidents like this are not desired,’ he added. The incident impacted two trains with a total delay of about 19 minutes, as the Petikemas train had to halt for 14 minutes to check the rolling stock’s eligibility. ‘Meanwhile, the Putri Deli service from Medan to Tanjung Balai paused at Bamban for 5 minutes to ensure the line was safe and ready,’ he explained. KAI Divre I Sumut urged all residents and road users to remain vigilant at level crossings. He reminded the importance of road safety in accordance with Article 114 of Law No. 22 of 2009 on Lalu Lintas dan Angkutan Jalan (LLAJ), which urges road users to give priority to trains to avoid danger. ‘Safety is our top priority. May people remain vigilant, stop to look left and right, and only proceed when safe. Discipline and mutual care on the road are key to preventing similar disasters in future,’ he concluded.