TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The state railway company PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) has prepared special regulations for long-distance trains and commuter line (KRL) trains in the Greater Jakarta area, during the enactment of the Large Scale Social Restriction (PSBB) policy.

To accommodate long-distance travel, PT KAI will only operate special trains (KLB). “For the KLB trains, we will not facilitate online sales,” said PT KAI Executive Director Didiek Hartantyo, on Thursday, May 21, 2020.

KLB trains are passenger-only trains geared for official government travel, as well as for the repatriation of Indonesian businessmen and citizens who have just returned from abroad.

Prior to purchasing tickets for the KLB trains, passengers are required to show COVID-19 travel documents, which include COVID-19-free swab or rapid test results, as well as an official letter from the relevant agency or company. During the enactment of the PSBB policy, KLB train tickets are only available in selected stations.

“Would-be passengers entering the station must wear face masks and we check for their temperature,” said Didiek. If the temperature check indicates more than 38 degrees celsius, the individual will first be isolated in isolation wards that have been prepared in the station.

Passengers, continued Didiek, are required to keep their distance while standing or sitting down, in accordance with the signs prepared in each train car. In addition, the number of passengers per commuter line train car has now been limited to a maximum capacity of only 60 passengers, during PSBB enactment.

"If (the number of passengers) exceeds that, then our staff will arrange (for the additional passenger) to board the next train car," he said.

In accordance with COVID-19 health protocols, PT KAI ensured that every train car and station remains sterilized with disinfectant liquid regularly. In spite of this, Didiek said, his office has called for the public to follow appeals to stay at home.

"If travel is really necessary, it will only be for those who really need it. However, please prepare the complete documents," he added.

BRAM SETIAWAN | Translator: DIO SUHENDA (Intern)