"The double-track railway construction in north of Java is almost complete except for the south lane, which is still under construction. We certainly hope that the next government will finish these projects," Bambang stated at the National Seminar on National Logistics System.
According to him, the construction of double-track railways in the north and south of Java is considered very important and strategic, concerning 60 percent of the national economy is still centered in Java. The construction will also reduce the burden of road transport, in addition to improving the efficiency and competitiveness of train transportation.
The construction of double-track railway linking the northern coast of Jakarta to Surabaya, East Java, is already completed, making the travel time between these two cities relatively faster.
"A number of regents in the northern parts of Java said that the construction of double-track railway has boosted the economic sectors, such as tourism and investment," Bambang noted.
Meanwhile, the construction of double-track railways in southern Java, connecting Jakarta to Surabaya, is still underway.
Bambang explained that the Northern Coast Road was overcrowded, considering nearly 90 percent of the road transports cross that route. The highway is prone to congestion, which in turn causes inefficiency.
"Not to mention during Idul Fitri holidays, the roads are extraordinary jammed, and hence train becomes a very appropriate alternative," he said.
Data obtained from the Ministry of Transportation showed that Jakarta-Surabaya double-track railway along 727 kilometers is almost complete.
The double-track railway along 291 kilometers has been operational since before 2013. During 2013-2014, 368 kilometers of double-track railway has been in operation, and there are still unfinished railway tracks along 68 kilometers to connect Babat-Surabaya.
(T.KR-LWA/INE/H-YH)
EDITED BY INE
(T.SYS/B/KR-BSR/A/H-YH)
Editor: Aditia Maruli Radja
Copyright © ANTARA 2014
