Despite a widespread power outage across North Sumatra last Friday, May 22nd, PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) Regional Division I North Sumatra successfully maintained full operational status for all its train services, ensuring they ran normally and safely. The significant blackout, which affected the region, did not disrupt the railway’s commitment to timely departures and arrivals for passengers.
“Even with the power outage, train operations in North Sumatra remained secure. All train journeys, from departures to arrivals, between Friday, May 22nd, at 6:44 PM WIB, and Saturday, May 23rd, at 7:30 AM WIB, adhered precisely to their scheduled times,” stated Anwar Yuli Prastyo, Public Relations Manager for KAI Regional Division I North Sumatra, in a written statement released on Saturday, May 23rd. Furthermore, essential passenger services at key stations such as Medan, Tanjung Balai, Pematangsiantar, and Rantauprapat were fully accommodated without any reported delays.
Anwar elaborated that KAI had proactively prepared robust electricity reserves to effectively anticipate any emergency situations. He explained, “During a power outage, generators require a short period to activate and produce electricity, which is then distributed for essential needs like lighting, air conditioning, and other services. KAI Regional Division I North Sumatra extends its sincere apologies to railway customers who experienced any inconvenience during this necessary transition of energy sources.” This preparedness ensured minimal disruption to passengers.
In a significant step towards sustainable energy, Anwar also highlighted that in addition to conventional generator sets, Medan Station has uniquely implemented a Solar Power Plant (PLTS). “These solar panels actively generate energy for daytime operations and simultaneously charge backup batteries, which can be deployed to provide power during any electrical disturbances at night,” Anwar added, showcasing KAI’s innovative approach to energy management.
Meanwhile, PT PLN, the state electricity company, confirmed that it had successfully resolved the disruption that led to the widespread power blackout across Sumatra. The company identified the cause as severe weather conditions, which interfered with the 275 kV Muara Bungo-Sungai Rumbai transmission line located in Bungo Regency, Jambi Province. Separately, Diki Nasution, Public Relations for PLN UID North Sumatra, stated that power had been restored to some affected areas within North Sumatra, with the recovery process continuing in a phased manner. “Some areas now have power; the restoration process is ongoing in stages,” he affirmed when contacted for confirmation.
Summary
PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) Regional Division I North Sumatra successfully maintained normal train operations despite a widespread power outage that occurred from May 22 to May 23. All scheduled train departures and arrivals, along with passenger services at major stations, proceeded safely and on time. This stability was achieved through proactive preparation of robust electricity reserves and the utilization of backup generators during the disruption.
To further enhance energy resilience, Medan Station has implemented a Solar Power Plant that powers daytime operations and maintains backup batteries for emergencies. Meanwhile, PT PLN has confirmed that the regional blackout was caused by severe weather affecting transmission lines in Jambi, and the company is currently working on a phased restoration of power across the affected areas.