TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - State-owned railway operator PT KAI recorded that the seat occupancy on long-distance trains increased by 20 percent ahead of Eid al-Adha or Islamic Feast of Sacrifice, compared to that of regular days during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The firm’s Vice President of Public Relations, Joni Martinus, said the hike was dominated by the route of Jakarta-Surabaya.

“Based on our monitoring during the pandemic, trains from Gambir to the east are highly favored, such as KA Argo Bromo connecting Gambir to Pasar Turi with the seat occupancy rate reaches 69 percent from the maximum capacity allowed at 70 percent,” said Joni in Pasar Senen, Central Jakarta, Monday, July 27.

Joni explained that the passengers’ movement ahead of the holiday in all stations has hit 40-60 percent compared to the normal condition. Whereas on usual days, the capacity was only about 30 percent.

Meanwhile, the total running train on all routes was only 30 percent. Joni claimed his side stopped operating many fleets such as Argo Parahyangan due to low public interest.

PT KAI, he added, was waiting for the public interest and government policies to reopen the routes. “Several regions are still enforcing PSBB (social restriction on a large scale) and some transitional PSBB. We adjust it,” Joni said.

To boost the public interest, Joni ensured that his firm provided several supporting health facilities such as face shields, hand sanitizer, and handwashing stations in train areas.

“We also offer a 25-percent discount for all long-distance train tickets starting Eid al-Adha until an undetermined period,” Joni announced.

Read also: Govt Issues Qurban Health Protocol Ahead of Eid al-Adha

FRANCISCA CHRISTY ROSANA