He said that a fast train is currently being developed for the Jakarta-Surabaya route, traveling a distance of more than 700 kilometers.
"The Jakarta-Bandung high-speed train (KCJB) would only require 29 minutes to reach Padalarang, West Java. If we extend the route, it could reach Surabaya in just 3 to 3.5 hours," he said at the Padalarang KCJB Station.
This travel time estimate is based on an ongoing study conducted by the Transportation Ministry with the KCJB operator PT Kereta Cepat Indonesia China (KCIC), he said.
Regarding the fare for the Jakarta-Surabaya fast train, Sumadi informed that it would be more cost-effective for passengers if the distance covered is around 500 kilometers.
The distance between Halim KCJB Station in Jakarta and its final stop Tegalluar Station in Bandung District, West Java, is 142.3 kilometers. The tariff for the journey is expected to fall within in the range of Rp250,000 (approximately US$16) to Rp350,000 per passenger. However, the final decision is yet to be made by the relevant authorities.
Sumadi emphasized that as a regulator, his ministry consistently prioritizes the quality of public transportation to ensure passenger safety.
"Therefore, we codunct systematic observations, research, and clarification regarding infrastructure and systems. We are utilizing the latest technology from China," he added.
The KCJB train will have a top speed of 350 kilometers per hour, making it faster than similar trains in China with a top speed of 300 km per hour, he said.
He added that KCJB will establish the foundation for fast-train transportation developed by the government.
"The next steps for more additional routes lie with the government. At least we already have the basic plan and design for this project," Sumadi said.
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Translator: Andi Firdaus, Resinta S
Editor: Anton Santoso
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