President Prabowo Subianto has spotlighted the critical issue of numerous unguarded railway crossings in Bekasi. Following a visit to victims of a recent train collision, he promptly approved a proposal from the Bekasi City Government to construct flyovers at these hazardous locations, signaling a robust commitment to enhancing railway safety and urban infrastructure.
This significant announcement came after President Prabowo visited the injured at Bekasi City Hospital on Tuesday, April 28th. The visit was prompted by a severe incident where the KA Argo Bromo Anggrek train collided with a KRL Cikarang Line commuter train at Bekasi Timur Station, underscoring the urgent need for improved safety measures across the railway network.
Addressing the pressing concern, President Prabowo stated, “We have observed a significant number of these railway crossings that are indeed unguarded. Many are left without proper supervision.” His remarks underscored the inherent dangers posed by such unprotected crossings, particularly in densely populated areas like Bekasi.
He further elaborated on the proposed solution, noting, “The Bekasi local government has submitted a proposal for the construction of flyovers. Given Bekasi’s high population density and the paramount, urgent need for efficient railway operations, I have authorized the immediate commencement of these flyover projects, supported directly by presidential assistance.” This swift approval highlights the government’s recognition of both the safety imperative and the operational importance of the railway network.
Extending the scope of the problem beyond Bekasi, President Prabowo revealed a staggering statistic: there are approximately 1,800 unguarded railway crossing points across Java island. He assured the public that comprehensive measures are being prepared to tackle this longstanding issue decisively, aiming for a significant improvement in national railway safety.
Reflecting on the historical context of these crossings, many of which date back to the Dutch colonial era, President Prabowo affirmed, “There are 1,800 such crossings in Java, some dating back decades, even from the Dutch colonial period. We are now committed to resolving all of them. I have issued directives to improve all these crossings, either by establishing permanent guard posts or by building flyovers.” This commitment signals a comprehensive overhaul of railway safety infrastructure across the island.
Regarding the financial implications, President Prabowo estimated the project’s cost to be around Rp 4 trillion (approximately 4 trillion Indonesian Rupiah). He emphasized that this substantial investment is crucial for public safety and the continued, vital role of railways in national transportation. “For safety and because railways are extremely important to us, we genuinely need them,” he added, reiterating the strategic value of the investment for both human lives and economic connectivity.
In light of the recent tragedy, President Prabowo conveyed his profound sorrow and sympathy to those affected. “Naturally, we are all concerned and shocked by the accident that occurred,” he expressed. “On behalf of myself and the government, I extend my deepest condolences.” His words offered comfort and reassurance of the government’s dedication to preventing future incidents through robust infrastructure development and safety protocols.
Summary
President Prabowo Subianto has approved the construction of a