He announced the initiative after inaugurating the revamped Tanah Abang Station in Jakarta on Tuesday.
"The train is ready," he said when asked by journalists about the service for farmers and small traders. During his journey from Manggarai Station to Tanah Abang Baru Station, Prabowo also inspected the train’s operation.
He explained that the special green train is already running and features facilities designed to support small business owners in the food and traditional trade sectors.
"They only pay for themselves; they do not have to pay for their goods. The seats are sideways," he said, describing his inspection of the farmers’ carriage.
Prabowo confirmed that the fare policy for the service will remain subsidized, saying the government’s subsidy scheme will help keep transportation affordable for farmers and traders.
"The government subsidizes 60 percent of all fares for farmers and traders, and they do not pay for their baggage," he added.
State-owned railway operator PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) announced that eight trains have been allocated for the service, which will initially operate on the Merak–Rangkasbitung route and vice versa.
The service will make 14 trips per day, with operating hours adjusted to the schedules of farmers and traders. The route is expected to expand to Tanah Abang after optimal operation in the initial phase.
The train uses government-subsidized economy-class carriages (K3) with 73 sideways seats to provide storage space for goods. The doors have also been widened to ease loading and unloading, and all facilities comply with minimum service standards.
The new service aims to improve the mobility of farmers and traders in Banten, particularly from Serang, Lebak, and Pandeglang, to help them deliver and sell their agricultural and other products.
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Translator: Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Anton Santoso
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