KAI Director of Facilities and Infrastructure Management, Heru Kuswanto, stated that the initial operation of the new CC 205 locomotives at Tanjungkarang Station marks a significant step in strengthening the national logistics sector, particularly in coal transportation, which plays a vital role in ensuring national energy resilience. Each locomotive is capable of pulling up to 61 wagons, equivalent to 3,050 tons of goods, replacing approximately 120 forty-foot container trucks. This not only improves time efficiency but also helps reduce congestion and air pollution.
On the same occasion, President & Chief Executive Officer of Progress Rail, John Newman, expressed his appreciation for the trust given by KAI.
"We greatly appreciate the trust KAI has placed in Progress Rail to support its business. We are fully committed to helping KAI grow its operations efficiently, safely, profitably, and sustainably in the years to come,” said Newman.
This project is part of KAI investment of USD 222.5 million, or around IDR 3.56 trillion, to support the projected transport of 111.2 million tons of coal and 10.9 million tons of non-coal freight by 2029. The CC 205 locomotives are also designed to reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 84%, in line with KAI's vision to support a more efficient and environmentally friendly national logistics system.
As part of strengthening the national rail-based logistics ecosystem, KAI is also procuring 1,125 units of BM 54-ton flatcars for freight transport in South Sumatra. The first shipment of 60 units arrived in Regional Division III Palembang on July 6, 2025, and is ready for use.
Each flatcar has a load capacity of up to 15 tons, with a total carrying capacity of 4,050 tons. These wagons are specially designed to transport heavy commodities such as coal and construction materials, while also supporting the efficient and sustainable distribution of national energy.
KAI Vice President of Public Relations, Anne Purba, added that the procurement of CC 205 locomotives and BM 54-ton flatcars is a strategic effort to accelerate the shift of logistics from road to rail, which is more efficient and environmentally friendly. This initiative also supports the sustainable growth of the logistics sector in Indonesia.
Purba also emphasized KAI commitment to national industrial independence by manufacturing all BM 54-ton flatcars domestically through PT INKA, utilizing optimal levels of Local Content (TKDN).
In addition, she stated that the additional rolling stock is prepared to support the projected transport of 111.2 million tons of coal and 10.9 million tons of non-coal freight by 2029, including from the Sumbagsel, Tarahan II, and Kertapati projects, which are expected to increase the total volume.
“We hope that with these additional assets, the national logistics system will become more integrated and efficient, supporting greener and more sustainable economic growth,” Purba concluded.
Reporter: PR Wire
Editor: PR Wire
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