TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Minister of Transportation Ignasius Jonan ensured that tram units that will be developed in Surabaya will be equipped with the latest technologies. The minister conveyed his statement after meeting with Mayor of Surabaya Tri Rismaharini at the Gubeng Station, Surabaya, on Sunday, November 23, 2014.
The Surabaya tram is said to be powered by batteries, which is more efficient and more environmentally-friendly. Jonan has also appointed state-owned train company PT. KAI as the tram operator in Surabaya.
Jonan explained that developing the tram system is not complicated because it can be done by reactivating old railways although some the tracks have been blocked by new buildings. "It can be rerouted as necessary," he said.
The provincial government of Surabaya will be tasked with providing subsidies if the production costs are considered to be too high. Jonan however, is yet to come up with an estimation.
Jonan hoed that the project can begin in 2015 and expected to be completed within two to three years. The tram will connect Surabaya with Wonokromo and Tanjung Perak.
