Surakarta, December 5, 2024 – Balai Teknik Perkeretaapian (BTP) Kelas I Semarang, in collaboration with PT Kereta Api Indonesia (Persero) Operational Region (Daop) 6, held a Talkshow and Media Gathering themed "Realizing Ideal Transportation in the Solo-Wonogiri Corridor with the Batara Kresna Train". This event aims to strengthen synergy between the Government and operators to support the development of more ideal transportation in the Solo-Wonogiri area.

Batara Kresna Train: Affordable Service with Positive Passenger Trends

The Batara Kresna Train has become the preferred mode of transportation for the people in the Solo-Wonogiri corridor. This service is fully supported by the Government through subsidies for pioneer transport fares.

Rudi Pitoyo, Head of Balai Teknik Perkeretaapian Kelas I Semarang, stated, “Thanks to the pioneer subsidies, the public can enjoy the Batara Kresna Train service at an affordable fare of only IDR 4,000, without compromising on comfort and safety.”

Rudi added that the high enthusiasm of the public is matched by the Government’s annual efforts to provide subsidies for pioneer transport fares. The following are the subsidy amounts for the Batara Kresna Train over the years:

• 2019: IDR 9,751,172,229
• 2020: IDR 9,149,002,890
• 2021: IDR 9,529,111,719
• 2023: IDR 8,736,142,362
• 2024: IDR 9,197,540,000

“Data also shows a significant upward trend in passenger numbers over the years. In 2020, the Batara Kresna Train served 31,450 passengers. This increased to 84,342 passengers in 2022, 125,472 passengers in 2023, and by October 2024, had already reached 112,398 passengers,” Rudi explained.

This growth reflects the public's trust in the Batara Kresna Train as a reliable transportation solution.

Railway Track Upgrades

Balai Teknik Perkeretaapian Class I Semarang has carried out infrastructure upgrades on the Solo-Wonogiri railway line, spanning 32 km. As of now, the progress has reached 92%. The scope of work includes:

• Replacing rails from types R.42/R.33 to R.54.
• Replacing metal sleepers with concrete sleepers.
• Constructing high platforms and canopies (overcapping) for passenger comfort at stations.
• Building substations and level crossing gates to enhance travel safety.
• Sterilizing tracks and constructing gateways to improve the aesthetics and security of the railway line.

Rudi explained that these upgrades will allow operational speeds of up to 80 km/h. Speed increases will be implemented gradually, from 35 km/h to 50 km/h, and eventually to 80 km/h.

“With these improvements, the Batara Kresna Train's travel time will be reduced from 105 minutes to 75 minutes, providing significant time efficiency for passengers,” he added.

Collaboration with Operators and Media

This event is expected to strengthen the synergy between BTP Class I Semarang, PT KAI, and the media in developing rail-based transportation. This support is also a tangible step toward promoting the growth of the transportation sector in Solo-Wonogiri, making railways the top choice for the community.