South Sumatra discuss special coal railroad, PSNs with PT KAI

South Sumatra Governor Herman Deru received a visit from PT Kereta Api Indonesia (Persero) or PT KAI Business Development Director Rudi As Aturridha and his staff at the South Sumatra Governor's Office on Mar. 6, 2025. In the meeting, Herman emphasized the importance of innovation and development of transportation infrastructure to encourage regional economic growth.

Herman explained that PT KAI has a strategic role in supporting the smooth distribution of logistics, especially for South Sumatra's leading commodities such as coal. He hopes that PT KAI will continue to strengthen relations with the local community, local government, and other stakeholders to create a safer and more comfortable transportation system.

"This support is expected to contribute to creating a safer and more comfortable environment for the local community, both for train passengers and the general public. All of those interests are absolutely for the welfare of the people," said Herman.

The governor also emphasized that PT KAI's development of rail transportation for coal is in line with the South Sumatra Governor's Regulation (Pergub) No. 74/2018.

"[Since] we are talking about coal transportation, we try as much as possible not to disturb the local community - one of which is by building a special railroad," Herman said.

In the meeting, the governor  also discussed the construction of five priority flyovers which are part of the National Strategic Project (PSN) for logistics railroads in South Sumatra. He emphasized the importance of public safety and comfort, as the increase in the number of coal transports will have an impact on the intensity of train travel.

"I want all parties to work comprehensively, and for PT KAI to facilitate the communication. PT Bukit Asam (PT BA), PT KAI, the South Sumatra Provincial Government, and also the regency governments [are all involved]. Because the people of South Sumatra will benefit from it, I ask for clarity on when we should meet to discuss [the development]," he said.

Meanwhile, Rudi conveyed the latest developments regarding coal transportation in the Southern Sumatra region. Several aspects that are in progress include the development of basic infrastructure, construction of loading and unloading terminals, construction of maintenance facilities, construction of supporting facilities, and procurement of railway facilities.

It is hoped that the special railroad will make coal transportation be more efficient and lessen coal logistics' disruption to the activities of the surrounding community. The South Sumatra Provincial Government and PT KAI are committed to continuing to coordinate for the smooth running of this project and the welfare of the South Sumatra's people.