Over 193 million Indonesians set to travel home for Eid, with new option of high-speed train
MOST FAVOUR TRAINS
Indonesians travel by road, rail, sea and air, but the most popular mode of transport remains trains. A transport ministry survey showed that more than 20 per cent of travellers favour it.
Kereta Cepat Indonesia China (KCIC), the high-speed rail network operator, has added more trips during the Eid period and is also familiarising many first-time passengers like Ms Dini with the various boarding processes.
Mr Emir Monti, corporate communications manager at KCIC, said commuters must get used to a different ticketing system which requires a card to be inserted at the gate. They then wait about two to three minutes in the queue.
“This is certainly different from other public transportation services. We also continue to familiarise people with our baggage and security rules.”
Separately, in terms of inter-city trains, the authorities have also added 344 trips from two stations in Central Jakarta to accommodate demand during the holiday period.
MORE EXPENSIVE BUS TICKETS
Meanwhile, bus ticket prices have risen up to 35 per cent depending on the destination.
The Siliwangi Antar Nusa Transport Company has increased their ticket price from East Jakarta to Pekanbaru in Riau province by 12 per cent, but this has not deterred travellers. A company driver said it is just as crowded as last year.
Indonesian authorities have said they are committed to implementing effective policies to prevent congestion in transport hubs and on the roads to ensure travellers have a safe and smooth journey home.
Source: CNA