After a trial ride on the LRT train from Harjamukti LRT Station, Depok, on Thursday, Jokowi explained that the light rail project is the first project in Indonesia, like the mass rapid transit (MRT) and the Jakarta-Bandung high-speed train.
"Thus, if there are deficiencies, things that need to be corrected, it is normal," he remarked at the Dukuh Atas LRT Station, Jakarta.
The president called on all parties to not immediately expect the LRT to be a perfect project, as system and other technical improvements would be conducted.
He affirmed that the government would ensure the safety and comfort of people while riding the LRT to become the central aspect. He also emphasized that the schedule for operating the LRT for the public would not be rushed.
Jokowi explained that the LRT project is carried out by the domestic industry. The project's domestic component level is more than 60 percent.
The LRT trains are produced by state-owned train manufacturer PT INKA Persero and the LRT infrastructure construction is handled by state-owned construction company PT Adhi Karya Persero Tbk (ADHI).
He expressed optimism that traffic congestion in Jakarta and the satellite cities would reduce after the LRT is operated. He noted that LRT will not only be operated on the Cibubur line but also towards Bekasi and Tangerang.
The president also stated that the Dukuh Atas LRT Station will also become a meeting point for MRT, commuter rail, airport trains, and Transjakarta buses.
The Jabodebek LRT uses more advanced technology as compared to the Jakarta MRT and South Sumatra LRT, namely Grade of Automation (GoA) Level 3.
The technology enables the trains to be operated without a driver and regulates the distance between trains to be closer while constantly maintaining a safe distance.
A series of tests has been conducted since 2022 and been more intensive in May 2023. The trial operation of the Jabodebek LRT is being conducted from July 12 until August 2023.
Translator: Indra Arief, Raka Adji
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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