Train operations in North Sumatra remain normal following Sinabung eruption

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) Regional Division I North Sumatra has ensured that all train journeys within the North Sumatra region remain safe and normal following the eruption of Mount Sinabung, which began on Monday (31/8).

Anwar Yuli Prastyo, Manager of Public Relations for KAI Regional Division I North Sumatra, stated in Medan on Wednesday that the company took immediate steps to conduct thorough inspections of railway track infrastructure and maintain continuous coordination with train drivers.

“Following the eruption of Mount Sinabung on Monday (3ly/8), KAI Regional Division I North Sumatra immediately took swift action by inspecting several track infrastructures. Additionally, we are coordinating intensively with the drivers operating trains on the relevant lines to anticipate potential visibility disruptions caused by the spread of volcanic ash,” said Anwar.

Mount Sinabung, located in the Karo Regency, North Sumatra, has recorded eruptions over the past few days. At 12:00 WIB on Monday (31/8/2026), the volcano ejected a volcanic ash column 3,500 metres above the peak, or 5,960 metres above sea level.

Volcanic activity continued until Wednesday (2/9/2026) starting from 02:00 WIB, marked by ash plumes reaching 1,000 metres and the recording of four volcanic earthquakes.

According to data from the Sinabung Volcano Observation Post (PPGA), the activity status of Mount Sinabung has been raised from Level II (Alert) to Level III (Standby).

The spread of volcanic ash even triggered the cancellation of several flights at Kualanamu International Airport.

“It has been confirmed that the impact of the volcanic ash spread does not affect the station areas or the railway operational lines managed by KAI Regional Division I North Sumatra. The visibility for drivers across all operational lines is also within safe limits to support travel safety. Every day, KAI Regional Division I North Sumatra operates 20 passenger train journeys, all of which remain normal and safe to date,” said Anwar.

KAI Regional Division I North Sumatra has urged passengers to remain calm and not to worry, as monitoring of track conditions and ash distribution is being conducted continuously alongside relevant agencies.

“KAI Regional Division I North Sumatra always prioritises the safety of train travel and the comfort of all passengers. We continue to monitor the development of Mount Sinabung’s activity continuously and are ready to take proactive steps to ensure that train operations in North Sumatra remain safe, smooth, and comfortable following the eruption,” he added.