Vulnerable Railway Crossings in Spotlight, AHY Urges Acceleration of Flyover and Underpass Construction

Acceleration of flyover and underpass construction at level crossings has become a key focus for the government following a train accident incident in Bekasi. Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) assessed that improvements to high-risk level crossing points must be carried out immediately as a long-term solution. He stated that level crossings in densely populated areas are vulnerable points requiring infrastructure interventions to reduce accident potential. “Furthermore, we want to ensure the presence of infrastructure solutions, for example, when there are level crossings that are indeed very crowded in several cities, we need to build flyovers or underpasses,” AHY explained on Tuesday (28/4/2026). In addition to promoting infrastructure solutions, AHY also urged the public to increase vigilance, especially when crossing railway lines. He emphasised that accidents at crossings not only impact human safety but can also disrupt community economic activities on a broad scale. AHY conveyed that an investigation will be conducted by the National Transportation Safety Committee (KNKT) in a transparent and comprehensive manner, including examining the signalling system and operational aspects. He also mentioned the high number of female victims in the incident as part of the evaluation, but stressed that the safety of all passengers must be the top priority. He explained that the evacuated victims are scattered across several hospitals in Bekasi City and Regency, with Bekasi City General Hospital serving as one of the main treatment centres. Several victims suffered severe injuries, ranging from broken bones to dislocations. “Earlier, I saw some who were still in the rooms, waiting for surgery and so on. I also had a chance to talk with patients. Various injuries, some with fractures or dislocations in their shoulders, legs, hands,” he said. By midday, 15 people had been recorded as dead due to the severe collision involving the train. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring maximum handling of the victims.