Indonesia Explores 24-Hour Commuter Rail Service to Address Overcrowding

Background of the Proposal

The Indonesian government has been prompted to consider extending the operating hours of its commuter rail (KRL) service to 24 hours following incidents of passengers spending the night at stations. This phenomenon has been observed particularly at stations like Cikarang, where travelers are forced to stay overnight due to the lack of late-night train services.

Government and PT KAI Discussions

Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has taken the initiative to discuss the feasibility of a 24-hour KRL service with PT KAI, the state-owned railway company. While expressing openness to the idea, Dudy emphasized that the decision cannot be made unilaterally and requires coordination with PT KAI. The primary concern revolves around the operational costs and logistical challenges associated with extending service hours.

Key Considerations and Next Steps

The proposal is currently under review, with several factors being considered. These include the financial implications of running a 24-hour service, the demand for late-night travel, and potential alternative solutions to address the issue of passengers being stranded. PT KAI is expected to assess these factors and provide insights that will inform the final decision.

Implications of a 24-Hour Service

Implementing a 24-hour KRL service could have significant implications for both passengers and the railway operator. For passengers, it would provide greater flexibility and convenience, particularly for those who travel late at night. For PT KAI, it would involve substantial operational changes, including increased staffing, maintenance, and potentially additional infrastructure.