Jakarta–Bandung High-Speed Railway tops 12 million riders in two years

(ECNS) — Two years after its launch, the Jakarta–Bandung High-Speed Railway, the first in Indonesia and Southeast Asia, has safely transported more than 12 million passengers, marking a milestone in the country's modern transit development.

Once a three-hour journey by road, the trip between Indonesian capital Jakarta and the popular tourist city of Bandung now takes just 46 minutes on the railway, "about the time it takes to enjoy a cup of coffee." Despite frequent rain and seismic activity in Indonesia, the line has maintained an impressive punctuality rate of over 95%.

Commissioned on Oct. 17, 2023, the 142.3-kilometer railway operates at speeds of up to 350 kilometers per hour. Data from China State Railway Group Co., Ltd. show that the line's single-day passenger record has reached 26,700, and trains have operated safely for a total of 5.65 million kilometers.

In response to growing demand, the joint Chinese-Indonesian operation team has steadily expanded services from 14 daily trains at the start to as many as 62 during peak periods, making it one of Indonesia's busiest rail routes. The line's flexible fare system and wide range of payment options, including e-wallets, have made travel more convenient, with over 85% of tickets now purchased online. Stations along the route feature a variety of dining and retail facilities, enhancing the overall passenger experience.

Safety remains a top priority. Drawing on China's mature high-speed rail management expertise, the operation team has adopted advanced monitoring systems and disaster-prevention technologies suited to Indonesia's tropical and seismic conditions. So far, 36,747 train services have been operated safely.

Beyond transforming travel between Jakarta and Bandung, the high-speed railway has also stimulated regional economic growth. The opening of Karawang Station has strengthened connections between industrial parks, ports, and airports, attracting new foreign investment. Around Padalarang and Tegalluar stations in Bandung, tourism, dining, and retail businesses have flourished, with hundreds of small and micro enterprises emerging.

Since its inauguration, more than half a million international travelers have taken the Jakarta–Bandung High-Speed Railway, further energizing Indonesia's tourism economy and showcasing the positive impact of bilateral cooperation between China and Indonesia.

(By Evelyn)