Train raid OK, service questionable

Train raid OK, service questionable

From Media Indonesia

The recent raid launched by the state railway company PT
Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) against passengers traveling without
tickets, particularly for electric and diesel trains (KRL/KRD),
deserves support, although it should have been conducted by KAI's
own personnel instead of the police.

In the meantime, KAI should review its policies that harm
public interests. For instance, ticket prices have been raised
while public services have experienced a decline rather than
improvement. Passengers' comfort is not guaranteed, the number of
rail cars is insufficient and departure/arrival schedules are not
properly kept.

Besides which, KAI also needs to consider the following
matters: Banning students prone to be involved in brawls,
regulating hawkers so as not to disturb passengers, requiring
conductors to bring along reserve tickets to prevent bribery,
maintaining proper lighting to deter pickpockets and prohibiting
street singers and beggars who have criminal intent.

BOBY LEE
Jakarta