The South Sumatra Light Rail Transit (LRT) has maintained a steady passenger rate of 13,000 passengers per day. This figure demonstrates the success of the South Sumatra LRT as a mode of mass transport that is increasingly in demand by the public, especially in Palembang and surrounding areas. This achievement is the result of the South Sumatra LRT Authority's continuous efforts to provide excellent service to passengers.

The increase in passengers has been gradual since the South Sumatra LRT began operations in 2018. As an environmentally friendly mode of transport, the South Sumatra LRT is expected to reduce traffic congestion and greenhouse gas emissions from private vehicles in urban areas.

The head of the South Sumatra Light Railway Management Centre (BPKARSS), Rode Paulus, said that achieving this level of passenger rate is clear evidence that LRT services are increasingly being accepted by the community. We continue to strive to maintain our operational performance, from safety aspects to passenger comfort. With the consistency of 13.000 passengers per day, this is a positive signal for the development of public transport in South Sumatra,' he said on Tuesday, 1 October 2024.

In an effort to maintain and even increase passenger numbers, the South Sumatra LRT Authority is not sitting idly by. Various innovations and service improvements have been made to provide the best experience for users. One of the most important steps is to increase the frequency of train departures, especially during peak hours.

Additional facilities for passengers are also a key focus. Passengers can now enjoy free Wi-Fi facilities at every LRT station, as well as additional electronic ticketing points to minimise queues. The LRT Authority is also committed to accessibility by providing facilities for the disabled, such as lifts and escalators, to make it easier to move around the stations.

More attention is also being paid to the cleanliness and comfort of the carriages. Cleaning teams routinely sterilise and clean the interior of trains to ensure passenger health and comfort, especially after the pandemic. Passenger comfort and health is our priority, so we always make sure that cleanliness and sterilisation are done well," he explained.

To increase coverage, the South Sumatra LRT authority is also planning to expand the train network and routes. To date, the South Sumatra LRT serves 13 stations spread across Palembang, from Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Airport to Jakabaring. However, with the increasing demand for mass transport, new routes to the outskirts of Palembang and several surrounding buffer zones are being considered.

The success of the South Sumatra LRT cannot be separated from government support, both at central and regional levels. The South Sumatra provincial government, together with the Ministry of Transportation, continues to provide attention and support in terms of funding, management, and infrastructure provision. 

In addition to government support, public participation in the use of public transport is also key. More and more people are switching from private cars to public transport, such as LRT. They see the long-term benefits in terms of cost efficiency, time savings, and environmental benefits.

With a steady passenger number of 13.000 passengers per day, the South Sumatra LRT has become one of the successful models for mass transit in Indonesia. This figure is expected to increase in the future as the network develops and services are improved. We are committed to providing the best service at all times. This stable passenger is a reflection of publictrust,t and we will continue to innovate to make South Sumatra LRT the first choice of transport for the people of South Sumatra.