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KRL Commuterline
KRL Commuterline
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KRL Commuterline
205 series EMU entering Gondangdia Station
Overview
Native nameKereta Rel Listrik (KRL) Commuter Line/Jabodetabek
Owner Kereta Api Indonesia
Area servedGreater Jakarta
LocaleJakarta, Indonesia
Transit typeCommuter rail
Number of lines5
Number of stations83 (operational)
4 (under construction)
Daily ridership1.3 million (daily highest)[1]
984,034 (weekday)
896,596 (2024 average)
734,013 (weekend)
Annual ridership334.36 million (2024)[2]
HeadquartersJuanda Station 2nd floor, Sawah Besar, Jakarta, Indonesia
Websitecommuterline.id
Operation
Began operation
  • 6 April 1925 – 1945 (Tandjoengpriok–Meester Cornelis line)
  • 1945 (under the present-day Kereta Api Indonesia)
  • 15 September 2008 (under the present-day KAI Commuter)
Operator(s)KAI Commuter
Number of vehiclessee below
Train length8, 10 or 12 cars per trainset
Headway3 minute(s)– 1hour (Some routes)
Technical
System length293.4 km (182.3 mi)[3]
Track gauge1,067 mm (ft 6 in) Cape gauge
Electrification1,500 V DC overhead catenary
Top speed95 km/h (59 mph)
System map
Map
Map
Manggarai Station Platform

KRL Commuterline, commonly known as Greater Jakarta Commuter rail, Jakarta Commuter rail, and KRL Commuter Line Jabodetabek is a commuter rail system for Greater Jakarta in Indonesia. It was previously known as KRL Jabodetabek. It is operated by KAI Commuter (KAIC), a subsidiary of the Indonesian national railway company PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI). The rail system uses rolling stock of rapid transit standard and operates high frequency services with minimum headway. In 2019, the average number of Commuterline users per day reached 1.04 million, with the record of the highest number of users served in a day being 1,154,080.[4][5][6]

"KRL" itself stands for "Kereta Rel Listrik" (literally "electric rail train" or "electric railcar"), a term for an electric multiple unit train.

History

[edit]

Colonial era

[edit]

In 1917, a plan to introduce electric railways in what was then Batavia was made by Dutch colonial railway company Staatsspoorwegen. A railway between Tanjung Priok to Meester Cornelis (Jatinegara) was the first line to be electrified, becoming the first narrow gauge electric railway service in Southeast Asia. The construction began in 1923 and completed on 24 December 1924. The line was opened on 6 April 1925—in time for the SS 50th anniversary—with 3000-series locomotives from SLM–BBC (Swiss Locomotive and Machine WorksBrown Boveri & Cie), 3100-series electric locomotives from AEG Germany, 3200-series electric locomotives from Werkspoor Netherlands and passenger coaches, as well as 30 ESS 100/200/400 EMU passenger motor and trailer cars, all manufactured for the railway by Westinghouse and General Electric.[7]

The electrification project continued and on 1 May 1927, all rail lines that surround Batavia had been fully electrified. Batavia Zuid station (now Jakarta Kota) was temporarily closed in 1926 and was reopened on 8 October 1929 to accommodate the new electric motive power that by then had become an envy of the region, which by then had been dominated by steam. The last part of the electrification project, Batavia Zuid – Buitenzorg (Bogor), was completed in 1930.[8] After independence in 1945, in periods before and after a brief return to Dutch government control for the network and also a 4-year Japanese operation of the railways during the Second World War, the Jakarta electric railway fell under the supervision of the new Indonesian government thru DKARI (Djawatan Kereta Api Repoeblik Indonesia, Indonesian Railways Service, former name of the present KAI), with Indonesian personnel controlling its assets. The city's growth postwar led to the network becoming the nation's true first commuter rail service, combined with steam and later on diesel powered commuter trains serving the capital and its suburbs.

Decline and revival

[edit]

Transportation in Jakarta was at its lowest point during the 1960s. Tramways in Jakarta were closed in 1960 and railway traffic on Manggarai – Jakarta Kota was restricted in November 1966. In 1965, a portion of railway line between Gondangdia and Sawah Besar was stripped from electrification, with remaining services on the portion now powered by steam and diesel trains. It was reported that then-President Sukarno wanted to get rid of anything that would block the view of Monas and Merdeka Square, then still under construction. After Sukarno's fall, the electrification was later reconstructed and was formally reopened in 1970 sans the EMUs, two converted into diesel railbuses, the rest into locomotive hauled trains for the steam and diesel traction of the capital commuter runs, as well as the remaining electric locomotives from the 1920s.[9][10]

On 16 May 1972, The National Railway Corporation of Indonesia (Perusahaan Negara Kereta Api/PNKA, successor of DKA), as part of the festivities for the 47th anniversary of the electric railways, finally ordered 10 new sets of electric multiple units from Japan, leading to the revival of the electric train services within Greater Jakarta. The new trains, built by Nippon Sharyo, arrived in 1976 - as a belated gift for the Golden Jubilee of the commuter train services the previous year, 1975 - and replaced the old locomotives and locomotive-hauled coaches on the then electric lines, driven by the then ongoing rehabilitation efforts on the rest of the network and funding that precipated another round of expansion into the suburbs of the capital. These EMU sets consisted of four cars each, with capacity of 134 passengers per car. Those new trains (commonly known as EMU Rheostatik) will continue serving the passengers in Jakarta for the next 37 years.[9] PNKA continued importing trains from Japan, South Korea, Belgium and Netherlands until the late 1990s, while it also accepted Indonesian builds by local manufacturer Industri Kereta Api beginning 1987. By the 1990s, Greater Jakarta commuter rail used a mixture of EMUs and DMUs, with lines waiting for electrification used Japan-made DMUs (class MCW 302) or diesel locomotive-hauled commuter coaches. It was on the non-electrified network where the 1987 Bintaro train crash occurred, the biggest single tragedy not just of the commuter network, but of the then Indonesian Railways Service Corporation LLC (Perusahaan Jawatan Kereta Api, PJKA, later on Perusahaan Umum Kereta Api or Permuka, the Indonesian Railways Public Corporation LLC) as a whole, spurring an era of change across the entire national rail network, and not just on the commuter services and the trainsets used in this venture. This happened just 3 years before the formal debut of electric commuter express services on the then active lines, that began in 1990 as part of the 65th anniversary of the electric commuter rail system, and before parts of the line from Jakarta Kota south to Gambir were changed from ground level to elevated tracks in 1991-92. Yet another train collision in the network in 1992 - this time in the Bogor main line - resulted in much of the rest of said line being double tracked.

In May 2000, the government of Japan via JICA and Tokyo Metropolitan Government donated 72 units of used Toei 6000 trains, formerly operating on Toei Mita Line. These were the first air-conditioned electric trains in Indonesia. The new trains were operated on 25 August 2000 for express services.[11]

Commuterline era

[edit]
Former logo until 28 September 2020

The current form of electric train service in Jakarta was begun in 2008. Jabotabek Urban Transport Division, a sub-unit of KAI that handles commuter service around Jabodetabek, spun-off to form KAI Commuterline Jabodetabek (KCJ). Ticket revenues, rolling stock maintenance, and station management was transferred to the newly formed subsidiary, but all operational matters (e.g. scheduling and dispatching), rolling stock, stations and infrastructures remained under KAI responsibility. At the same time, all track matters and station construction and maintenance were handled by the Ministry of Transportation.

Former Economy class EMU at Gambir Station (taken in October 2009)

The modernization of the commuter railway system, however, did not begin until 2011. Network operations were greatly simplified from 37 point-to-point service patterns into six integrated lines (known as "loop line" system) all running local, stopping at every station, as all express services were abolished. Service was also simplified into two service classes: Economy class (cheaper service without air conditioning, subsidized by Ministry of Transportation) and Commuter class (more expensive service with air conditioning). On 17 April 2013, the Commuterline extension to Maja in the Green Line commenced operation.[12] On 25 July 2013, the economy class was discontinued, leaving the Commuter class as the sole service class throughout the network.[13] In July 2013, the operator introduced the COMMET (Commuter Electronic Ticketing) system replacing the old paper ticket system and changing the old fare system into 'progressive fare' system, as well as modernization of all 80 serving stations.

Starting on 1 April 2015, the Nambo line extension operation formally commenced.[14][15] Three line extensions have been opened between 2015 and 2017: the extension of Pink Line to Tanjung Priuk station which commenced operation on 22 December 2015,[16] the extension of Green Line to Rangkasbitung station which commenced operation on 1 April 2017,[12] and the extension of Blue Line to Cikarang station which commenced operation on 8 October 2017.[17] In July 2015, KA Commuter Jabodetabek served more than 850,000 passengers per day, which is almost triple the 2011 figures, but still less than 3.5% of all Jabodetabek commutes.[18]

Until 5 March 2014, KA Commuter Jabodetabek only operates 8-car trainsets on all lines.[19] In 2016, the operation of 12-car trainsets commenced.[20] As of December 2019, it operates 1,057 trips per day by 90 trains.[21] Importation of used Japanese trainsets for use in Commuterline resulted in a 2023 controversy, when the importation of the used trains were banned.[22][23]

In May 2022, KAI Commuter announced some changes to the network, marking the first modification of the routing system since 2011 reform.[24] The Loop Line was discontinued with its Jatinegara-Manggarai loop part being absorbed by the Cikarang Line, which ceased service from Manggarai to Jakarta Kota in favor of the loop and was rebranded as Cikarang Loop Line with blue-circled "C" symbol. The Nambo branch of the discontinued line was absorbed by the Central Line, which was rebranded as Bogor Line with red-circled "B" symbol.

The KRL Commuterline officially marked its centennial in 2025.[25]

Lines and services

[edit]

The modernization project in 2011 introduced 6 integrated lines and 8 services which serve Greater Jakarta. In 2022, the number of lines was reduced to 5 as the Loop Line was discontinued and absorbed into Bogor Line and Cikarang Loop Line.

The network route map is recognized by color code, destination, and since 2020, a station numbering system.

Lines Services No. of stations Length Opened Operated as
KCI Line
Bogor Line Jakarta Kota to Bogor 25 54.8 km (34.1 mi) 1930 5 December 2011[26]
Jakarta Kota to Nambo 26 51.0 km (31.7 mi) 2015 1 April 2015[27]
Cikarang Loop Line CikarangPasar Senen/ManggaraiKampung Bandan (full-racket) 29^ 87.4 km (54.3 mi) 1930 28 May 2022[27]
Cikarang–Manggarai–Angke (half-racket) 20 38.9 km (24.2 mi) 2022 28 May 2022[27]
Rangkasbitung Line Tanah Abang to Rangkasbitung 19 72.8 km (45.2 mi) 1899 1 April 2017[28]
Tangerang Line Duri to Tangerang 11 19.2 km (11.9 mi) 1899 5 December 2011[26]
Tanjung Priok Line Jakarta Kota to Tanjung Priuk 4 8.1 km (5.0 mi) 1885 5 December 2011
partial; feeder only[26]
22 December 2015
fully operational[29]
† excluding Gambir station, which doesn't serve Commuterline trains (train passes through without stopping here)
†† excluding Pasar Senen station, which is one-way only for counterclockwise trains (Cikarang full racket via Pasar Senen, listed as "Kampung Bandan via Pasar Senen")
^ Including Pasar Senen Station. This station only serves trips to the north (towards Kampung Bandan). Trips to the south (towards Jatinegara) do not stop at this station.

Ticketing and fares

[edit]

Passengers may also purchase a card for multiple journeys, named Kartu Multi-Trip (KMT, "multitrip card"). KMT is priced at Rp 50,000 (including Rp 30,000 credit).[30] The card has no expiry date and can be used with a minimum credit of Rp 5,000 after KCI introduced fare adjustment machines. Passengers who don't have enough credit in their KMT can top-up at fare adjustment machines or two-way ticket counters. Previously the minimum credit was Rp 13,000, based on the highest available fare in the system.[31][32] The card may be topped up at the ticket counters or vending machines.[33] Starting in October 2023 this card could also be used in other major transit systems such as Jakarta MRT, Jakarta LRT or Jabodebek LRT and Transjakarta

In addition to KCI-issued cards, passengers may also purchase bank-issued cards. Unlike KCI-issued cards which may only be used for public transit systems and station's park-and-ride facilities, these cards may also be used for goods and services payments at selected merchants, gas stations, Transjakarta BRT, selected parking facilities, and toll road payments. Currently Commuterline accepts Mandiri e-Money,[34] BRIZZI,[34] BNI TapCash,[34] flazz BCA,[35] Bank Jakarta Jakcard,[36] and Jak Lingko.[37]

Starting from 1 October 2019, Commuterline station gates accept tickets purchased through mobility and e-wallet apps. LinkAja! was the first to implement it, followed by JakLingko and Gojek apps[38] in 2022. It uses QR code displayed by the app on passenger's mobile phone that can be read by scanner attached inside the system. Payment with LinkAja! can be used only if the passenger's balance is not less than Rp 13,000.00, as the payment directly deducts LinkAja balance, thus having similar mechanism as multitrip card.[39][40] On the other hand, passengers using JakLingko and Gojek must choose their origin and destination before obtaining the ticket, similar to single trip cards.

However, on 16 January 2023 payment for Commuterline tickets using LinkAja! has been discontinued.[41]

Fares

[edit]

Fare for Greater Jakarta region Commuterline is charged by distance travelled ('progressive fare'), Rp 3,000 for the first 25 kilometers and Rp 1,000 for every next 10 kilometers.[42] The fare is subsidized by the Ministry of Transportation. For instance in 2016, the government allocated Rp 1.1 trillion public service obligation to Commuterline.[43]

Prior to the introduction of distance-based fare, the fare is determined by number of stations passed. The first five stations passed is charged at Rp 3,000 and every next three stations charged at Rp 1,000. Between July and November 2013, the charges were lowered to Rp 2,000 and Rp 500 respectively, after the government subsidized the fare.[44] Number of passengers increased by 30% after one week of introduction of the new fares.[45]

Stations

[edit]
Manggarai Station is the busiest commuter rail stations in Jakarta

As of January 2019, there are 80 active and 4 inactive stations for Commuterline. All the stations have commercial zones of various sizes for operating retail stores, chain shops, and ATM booths. The stations have prayer areas, toilets, and a dispensary for emergency health service. Stations have manual ticket counters and automated ticket vending machines since 2017.[46] Starting on 15 January 2019, all stations have a free Wi-Fi service facility for passengers.[47]

Busiest statistics

[edit]
Busiest stations
No. Station Total Passengers[2] Note Year
1 Bogor 16,530,000 Busiest annual arrival 2023
2 Bogor 15,300,000 Busiest annual departure 2023
3 Manggarai 230,860 Highest user transfer volume daily 2023
4 Tanah Abang 155,000 2nd Highest user transfer volume daily 2023

List of stations

[edit]

Bold: Terminus or interchange stations Italic: Closed for Commuterline, open for intercity trains Strikethrough: Closed for all services

Bogor Line
(including Nambo branch)
Cikarang Loop Line Rangkasbitung Line Tangerang Line Tanjung Priok Line

† Some trains terminate here

† Some trains terminate here[48]

^ Headway every 1–2 hours.[49]

List of major stations

[edit]

Below are the list of main and terminus stations, some of them also serve intercity train lines.

Station Establishment Type Line(s) Intercity/Local station
Jakarta Kota 1926 Commuterline terminus and interchange, intercity terminus Yes
Gambir 1884 Intercity train terminusa Not yet in service Yes
Manggarai 1918 Commuterline interchange and terminus (some services) Under construction
Jatinegara 1910 Commuterline interchange and terminus (nominal loop), westbound intercity stopb Yes
Tanah Abang 1910 Commuterline terminus and interchange No
Duri 1899 Commuterline terminus and interchangec No
Tangerang 1899 Commuterline terminus No
Angke 1899 Commuterline terminus (some services) No
Kampung Bandan N/A Commuterline interchange and terminus (some services) No
Tanjung Priuk 1925 Commuterline terminus No
Pasar Senen 1925 Intercity terminus, westbound local train stop and northbound Commuterline stopd Yes
Depok 1881 Commuterline terminus (some services) No
Citayam 1873 Commuterline interchange (branch line services) No
Bogor 1881 Commuterline terminus Yesb
Nambo 1997 Commuterline terminus (branch line services) No
Bekasi 1887 Commuterline terminus (some services), local and intercity train stop Yes
Cikarang 1890[50] Commuterline terminus, local and intercity train stop Yes
Serpong 1899 Commuterline terminus (some services) No
Parung Panjang 1899 Commuterline terminus (some services) No
Tigaraksa N/A Commuterline terminus (some services) No
Rangkasbitung 1899 Commuterline terminus, local and intercity train stop Yes
^a Currently Gambir station does not serve as Commuterline stop, instead focusing on intercity train services. Passengers who travel to areas near Merdeka Square, could depart at the nearby Gondangdia or Juanda stations.
^b Southbound local trains (operated by KAI, serving trips from Bogor to Sukabumi/Cianjur) starts and ends from Bogor Paledang station, within walking distance from Bogor station.
^c Duri Station was planned to be the transit for Airport Commuter Train, which was under construction in 2014 and started operation in 2017.
^d Pasar Senen station only serves counterclockwise, full-racket services of Cikarang Loop Line towards Kampung Bandan or Jakarta Kota (minority service). Trains towards Bekasi or Cikarang does not stop here.

Rolling stock

[edit]
Train condition before the reformation of transportation (taken on 2011)
Train condition after reformation of transportation
Train Condition

Commuterline rolling stocks are composed of second-hand rail cars imported from Japan of Tokyo Metro, Toyo Rapid Railway, JR East (in which KAI Commuter has strategic partnerships with), and Tokyu Railways. All of these cars are legally classified as executive-class cars (K1). Domestically made air-conditioned cars produced by Industri Kereta Api (INKA) are no longer in service, although those trains will operate on Solo-Yogya Commuterline in Central Java. Trains are generally formed of 8, 10, or 12 cars, with a capacity of 80–110 passengers per car. The system had 1,020 cars as of July 2019.[51]

Train without air conditioning (mainly economy class) is no longer operated as KAI Commuter (the operator) begins the single-service operation of air-conditioned trainsets. One set of ex-economy classes (Holec) has been retrofitted with air conditioning by INKA.

The Toei 6000 series began service in 2000 and was the first air-conditioned train type to be scrapped in December 2015. They are replaced by a huge influx of newer secondhand 205 series trains.[52]

On 1 January 2016, the ex-JR East 103 series was also retired from service. In 2023, KAI filed a request to import the E217 series from JR East. However, this request was denied by the Ministry of Industry instead, it was suggested that KAI appoint PT INKA and CRRC Qingdao Sifang to supply EMUs for use on the KRL Commuterline network. On the 1st of February 2025, CRRC imported a 1 SFC120V train set to undergo testing in the Bogor line. The second train set arrived in Indonesia on 12 March 2025. On 17 February 2025, PT INKA successfully manufactured iE 305 train sets in Madiun. On March 17, 2025, 12 iE 305 cars were transported to Solo Jebres Station where they will undergo testing in the KRL Commuter Yogyakarta line. On 19 April 2025, iE 305 cars finished testing and were sent to a KRL depot in Depok. On 29 April 2025, several Tokyo Metro 6000 series cars, as well as 05 series cars, were retired and laid to rest next to the Depok depot, as newer commuter trains had already arrived to replace them.

Air-conditioned rolling stock

[edit]

EMU classes mentioned as current/active by KAIC on 28 April 2024:[53]

Class Internal name Image Units In service Cars per Set Manufacturer Remarks
205-0 series
205-5000 series
Japan Railway 205 812 782 8, 10, 12 Japan Nippon Sharyo, Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Hitachi, Ltd., Kinki Sharyo, Tokyu Car Corporation (1984–1994) 205-0 ex-JR East Saikyo Line, Yokohama Line, Nambu Line, and Musashino Line rolling stock, 2013–present
205-5000 series ex-Musashino Line rolling stock, 2018–present
Tokyo Metro 6000 series Tokyo Metro 6000 270 212 8, 10 Japan Nippon Sharyo, Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Hitachi, Ltd., Kinki Sharyo, Kisha Seizo, Tokyu Car Corporation (1968–1990) ex-Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line rolling stock, 2011–present
Tokyu 8500 series Tokyu 8500 64 8 8 Japan Tokyu Car Corporation (1975–1991) ex-Tokyu Toyoko Line and Den-en-toshi Line rolling stock, 2006–present[54]
SFC120-V

CLI-125

SFC120-V 132 132 12 China CRRC Qingdao Sifang (2025)[55][56] 2025–present
203 series Japan Railway 203 50 34 8, 10, 12 Japan Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Kinki Sharyo, Tokyu Car Corporation (1982–1986) ex-JNR/JR East Joban Line rolling stock, 2011–present
Tokyo Metro 05 series Tokyo Metro 05 80 8 8 Japan Nippon Sharyo, Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Hitachi, Ltd., Kinki Sharyo, Tokyu Car Corporation (1988–1991) ex-Tokyo Metro Tōzai Line rolling stock, 2010–present[57]
Tokyo Metro 7000 series Tokyo Metro 7000 40 16 8 Japan Nippon Sharyo, Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Kinki Sharyo, Tokyu Car Corporation (1974–1989) ex-Tokyo Metro Yūrakuchō Line rolling stock, 2011–present

Transferred to Yogyakarta Line

[edit]
Class Internal name Image Units In service Cars per Set Manufacturer Remarks
KfW i9000 KfW i9000 40 40 8 Indonesia-Germany INKA, Bombardier (2011) Financed by KfW, 2011–2019, transferred since 2022
205-0 series Japan Railway 205 16 16 8 Japan Nippon Sharyo (1984–1994) 205-0 ex-JR East, transferred from KRL Commuterline Jakarta

Future air-conditioned rolling stock

[edit]
Class Internal name Image Units In service Cars per Set Manufacturer Remarks
iE305

CLI-225

iE305 192 0 12 Indonesia-Japan INKA, J-TREC (2025)[58][59] Planned to be delivered by 2025 (Finished testing in Yogyakarta Line and sent to Depok along with a second set.)

Retired/suspended air-conditioned rolling stock

[edit]

Non-air-conditioned rolling stock (all retired)

[edit]

Controversies

[edit]

Incidents and accidents

[edit]
  • On 18 June 2011, during the trial for the new Commuterline services, angry passengers vandalized a former Tokyu 8500 series trainset number 8613F on idle at Jakarta Kota station by stoning it, damaging its crucial components, as a protest toward prolonged waiting time for regular subsidized Economy class EMU.[61]
  • On Thursday, 4 October 2012, a former Tokyo Metro 05 series trainset (no. 05-007F) travelling as KA 435[62] derailed on a switch before Cilebut station, with the third car impacted station platform's end. No fatal injury reported, the whole trainset was later written off due to damage beyond repair.[63]
  • 9 December 2013 – A former Tokyo Metro 7000 series trainset (no. 7121F) travelling as KA 1131 on Serpong-Jakarta line collided with Pertamina tanker truck at Bintaro Permai railway intersection, Jakarta. Seven people (including the three train drivers) were killed in the crash. The trainset was subsequently written-off.[64]
  • 23 September 2015 – Two electric trains (former 205 series trainset no. 205-54F and 205-123F) travelling as KA 1154 and KA 1156 were involved in a rear-end collision at Juanda Station. No one was killed, but 42 passengers were hurt, with some required intensive treatment. Some cars involved returned to service combined in trainset 205-54F, while the rest was written off.[65][66]
  • On Sunday, 10 March 2019, a former Tokyu 8500 series trainset (no. 8612F) travelling as KA 1722 on Jatinegara–Bogor line derailed between Cilebut and Bogor station. KA 1722 crashed, rolled over, and hit an overhead catenary pole until it collapsed and the train body dented on the front side. Meanwhile, car no. 8712 and 8912 rolled over. There are no reports of casualties, the four undamaged cars were joined to trainset 8610F to form a 12-car trainset and the rest were written off.[67]

Pre-2011 route and services reform

[edit]

The accidents mentioned below involved trains operated by KAI Commuter's predecessor systems, such as ESS (1925-1939), DKA/PNKA/PJKA Jakarta Exploitation (1945-1976), Jabotabek Urban Railway (1976-1999), and Divisi Jabotabek (1999-2011), before the introduction of standard Commuterline service in July 2011 and standard Commuterline routes in December 2011.

  • On 27 June 1928, a Westinghouse EMU of the State Electric Railway (then still under Dutch East Indies colonial rule) from the direction of Kemayoran station overran the terminating tracks of (currently inactive) Batavia Noord station, hitting a horse-drawn carriage on the road beside the station. No human casualty reported[68]
  • 20 September 1968, an Economy local train hauled by class 3200 electric locomotive travelling as KA 406 to Bogor collided with another economy train (KA 309) to Jakarta near Ratu Jaya, Depok. 46 deaths and 115 injuries reported. The crash was attributed to malfunctioning indicator in the signaling system as well as lack of verification by the dispatcher.[69]
  • 2 November 1993, two Economy train, both of Rheostatic EMU class from 1976 and 1980s batch, running the Jakarta Kota-Bogor line on opposite directions were involved in a head on collision near Ratu Jaya, Depok around 07:30 am during the morning rush hour. 20 people were killed, including drivers of both trains, and further 100 was injured. Being the same type, 4 surviving cars from both side were combined, colloquially known as CatDog trainset. The rest were written off. This accident prompted the government to start double-tracking project of the Depok-Bogor segment of the line.[70][71][72]
  • 19 August 2000, A EMU Hitachi trainset running KA 628 (Economy class) from Jakarta Kota to Tangerang was hit from behind by Indocement factory coal supply train no. KA 228 en route between Kampung Bandan and Angke stations. 3 people died on this accident including 2 train crews on both trains. The Hitachi train involved was stored for a long time afterward, before being scrapped. On a further note, Tangerang line used to continue from Duri all the way to Kota before 2011.[73]
  • 18 November 2003, EMU Holec trainset KL2-94202F running KA 396 (Business) on Tanah Abang-Serpong service suffered an electrical fire ignited by overhead wire snapped by overload triggered by failure of the trains' component before reaching Kebayoran station. The two frontmost cars of the train was engulfed in the inferno.[74][75]
  • 4 October 2003, EMU Holec KL3-97242F travelling as KA 490 (Economy) bound for Bogor collided with the rear end of a fellow EMU Holec train KL3-94212F traveling as KA 488 (Economy) also bound for Jakarta Kota on this line between Cilebut and Bogor stations. 39 people were injured.[70][72]
  • 12 December 2003, a EMU Rheostatic trainset KL3-76112F set in idle position on Bogor station prepared for KA 459 (Economy) slid uncommanded down the line. It continues all the way until stopped by the steeper upward climb of the Manggarai-Cikini elevated track. Further investigation proved the trainset was not secured enough to prevent it to slide away from idle position.[76]
  • 30 June 2005, EMU Rheostatic KL3-76110F travelling as KA 583 (Economy) bound for Jakarta Kota collided with the rear end of a EMU Holec trainset KL3-2000202F traveling as KA 585 (Economy) on this line between Tanjung Barat and Pasar Minggu stations. 5 deaths and 113 injuries reported.[77][72]
  • 2 January 2007, KA 241 (Economy) running on Bojong Gede-Jakarta Kota service derailed while reaching track 10 of Jakarta Kota terminus station, no casualty reported.[78]
  • On 18 July 2007, a EMU Holec train trainset no. KL3-97228F running KA 423 (Economy) bound for Jakarta Kota was hit from behind by a locomotive being sent to Pasar Senen to carry KA 120 Jayabaya while stopping at Pondokjati station. No injury reported. The EMU set was able to continue its journey without further incident.[79]
  • On 30 October 2008, a former Toei 6000 set number 6181F train serving Bekasi to Jakarta line via Pasar Senen variant of the line (at the time being the main route for this line) as KA 421 AC Economy class train was hit from behind by Antaboga 1001 freight train on a track segment between Kemayoran and Kampung Bandan stations. Surviving cars of 6181F returned into service after another accident involving 6151F (mentioned below) opened the way to trainset reconfiguration in 2009.[80]
  • 5 June 2009, EMU Holec travelling as KA 521 (Economy) bound for Jakarta Kota collided with the rear end of a former Toyo Rapid 1000 series trainset traveling as KA 265 (Express) on this line between Tebet and Manggarai stations.[81]
  • 4 August 2009 – Former Toei 6000 series trainset no. 15F traveling as KA 211 (Express) collided with the rear end of EMU Holec KL3-97234F travelling as KA 549 (Economy) on between Bogor and Cilebut stations. Assistant driver and a technician on board KA 211 was killed. Some cars from KA 211 involved returned to service redistributed to other trainsets, including 6181F and shortened 4-car 6151F well until Commuterline era, while the rest (including the Holec trainset) was written off.[82][83][72]
[edit]

Rolling stock

[edit]

Stations

[edit]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
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The KRL Commuterline is an electric-powered commuter rail system serving the Greater Jakarta metropolitan area, known as Jabodetabek, in Indonesia. Operated by PT Kereta Commuter Indonesia (KCI), a subsidiary of the state-owned PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI), it connects central Jakarta with satellite cities including Bogor, Depok, Tangerang, Bekasi, and extends to Rangkasbitung and Cikarang. The network comprises five main lines—Bogor, Bekasi, Tangerang, Rangkasbitung, and Cikarang—spanning approximately 418 kilometers with around 80 stations, facilitating over 1,000 daily train trips. In recent years, it has transported an average of over one million passengers per day on weekdays, underscoring its critical role in alleviating urban congestion despite persistent challenges like overcrowding and infrastructure strain. Key developments include electrification starting in the 1970s and expansions integrating with other transit modes, though service reliability has been tested by high demand exceeding capacity in peak hours.

History

Colonial origins and early development

The foundational railway lines of the KRL Commuterline trace their origins to the Dutch colonial era in the , when infrastructure was developed primarily to support the export of plantation commodities such as , , and from inland areas to the port of Batavia (present-day ). The earliest key route, connecting Batavia to Buitenzorg (now ), received a concession in 1864 and was constructed by the private Nederlandsch-Indische Spoorweg Maatschappij (NISM). This 60-kilometer standard-gauge line opened to traffic on 31 January 1873, enabling efficient haulage of goods and limited passenger services using steam locomotives. Expansion continued with the development of eastern lines under state auspices, including routes from Batavia through Meester Cornelis (now Jatinegara) toward Bekasi and beyond, integrated into the network operated by the Staatsspoorwegen (SS), the Dutch East Indies state railway company established in 1875. These extensions, built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, prioritized freight for agricultural estates but increasingly accommodated suburban passenger traffic as Batavia's urban population grew. By the 1910s, the SS had assumed control of the Batavia-Buitenzorg line from private operators, standardizing operations across the Batavia region. Early modernization efforts focused on to boost capacity amid rising commuter demand from European administrators, Chinese merchants, and local workers traveling between Batavia and its outskirts. The SS began electrifying suburban lines in 1923, starting with the Tanjung Priok to Meester Cornelis segment, which entered service on 6 April 1925 using electric multiple units and locomotives like the ESS 3200 class. This initiative extended westward to Buitenzorg by the mid-1920s, marking Indonesia's first electrified mainline railways and enabling more frequent, reliable services over steam-powered operations.

Post-independence decline

Following Indonesia's declaration of independence on August 17, 1945, the electric rail network around Jakarta, managed initially by the Djawatan Kereta Api Republik Indonesia (DKA), continued operations despite extensive damage from World War II and the subsequent independence struggle. The system relied on aging colonial-era rolling stock and infrastructure, with limited maintenance due to scarce resources and economic turmoil under President Sukarno's administration. Power supply issues from the state electricity company (PLN) exacerbated operational difficulties, leading to frequent interruptions and reliance on supplementary diesel services. By the early 1960s, the decline intensified amid , political instability, and a policy shift favoring road-based transport over rail. Tram services in , integral to urban mobility, were discontinued in 1960, viewed by some as colonial remnants. operations on key lines, such as Manggarai to Jakarta Kota, faced restrictions by November 1966, with full suspension of electrification as diesel locomotives took over to circumvent shortages and high maintenance costs for obsolete equipment. This transition reduced service speeds, capacity, and frequency, contributing to , breakdowns, and a drop in ridership as buses and private vehicles gained prominence. The period marked a broader neglect of railway infrastructure under Sukarno's , where investments prioritized ideological projects over practical rehabilitation, despite earlier attempts like locomotive orders in 1953-1954 that yielded limited results. Track conditions deteriorated, signaling and safety systems lagged, and the network's role in commuter transport diminished, setting the stage for dependency on imported used trains from starting in to restore electric services.

Revival under state management

In response to growing urban congestion in the during the 1980s, the Indonesian government, through state-owned , launched the Jabotabek Railway Transportation Project as a national initiative under presidential decrees issued in 1982 and 1983. This effort focused on rehabilitating the dilapidated network by implementing double-tracking, of key lines, and upgraded signaling systems to restore reliable electric commuter services that had largely ceased after due to neglect and a shift to diesel operations. Initial phases prioritized the Bogor Line, with planning for dual tracks and 1,500 V DC overhead commencing in 1982, marking a deliberate state-driven push to leverage rail for mass transit amid rapid population growth. Electrification progressed incrementally, with the Tanah Abang–Bogor segment fully operational by 1992, enabling the deployment of electric multiple units (EMUs) and reducing reliance on slower diesel-hauled trains. Supported by Japanese (ODA), KAI imported used EMUs from starting in the late 1970s and accelerating through the 1980s–1990s, including sets from between 1976 and 1987, which boosted capacity and service frequency on electrified routes. These imports, often refurbished locally, addressed chronic shortages in , though they reflected Indonesia's technological dependency on foreign aid for modernization. By the early , structured commuter operations were formalized, with daily ridership climbing as infrastructure upgrades like grade separations and station renovations enhanced reliability and safety. Under direct KAI oversight via its Jabotabek Urban Transportation Division, these interventions reversed decades of underinvestment, positioning the system as a viable alternative to despite ongoing challenges like and uneven maintenance. The state's commitment extended to signaling automation and track doublings on radial lines, culminating in expanded electric services across Greater by the mid-2000s, though full integration awaited later corporate restructuring.

Commuterline rebranding and expansions to 2025

In September 2020, PT Kereta Commuter Indonesia rebranded as , aligning with the parent company PT Kereta Api Indonesia's logo update for its 75th anniversary, to reflect expanded operations beyond Greater . This change unified branding under the KAI umbrella while maintaining the KRL Commuterline service name for the core Jabodetabek network. On May 28, 2022, introduced operational pattern changes to the route network—the first major revision since —including dedicated services on lines 6 and 7 at Manggarai Station to optimize capacity amid ongoing infrastructure upgrades. These adjustments aimed to reduce congestion by rerouting select trains through enhanced double-track sections at key hubs. The 2023 GAPEKA schedule, effective June 1, further refined Jabodetabek services with adjusted frequencies and integration of additional local routes under the Commuter Line branding, extending KAI Commuter's oversight to non-KRL local trains nationwide. Daily trips in Greater Jakarta stabilized around 1,048, supporting ridership recovery post-pandemic without territorial expansion. By 2025, fleet modernization accelerated with the delivery of eight 12-car electric trainsets (96 cars total) from in , entering service from June 1 to replace aging units, followed by 11 sets operational by October for improved capacity of approximately 3,400 passengers per train. Additional domestic sets from PT INKA contributed to a total of 23 new series, enabling the GAPEKA 2025 increase to 1,063 daily weekday trips. Proposed eastward extension to was canceled in September 2025 due to insufficient budget allocation, halting infrastructure preparations initiated in 2019.

Operations

Route network

The KRL Commuterline route network serves the Jabodetabek metropolitan region, encompassing and adjacent areas in and provinces, with five primary lines and an extension, interconnected at major hubs such as Manggarai Station for seamless transfers between southern and eastern routes. The system totals approximately 80 stations across these lines, facilitating daily commutes for millions along electrified tracks primarily using 1,067 mm gauge. Operations emphasize radial patterns from , with branches to accommodate suburban growth, though service patterns vary by peak hours to manage capacity. Key lines include the Bogor Line (color-coded red), which runs from Jakarta Kota to and extends via branches to Nambo, with routes splitting at Citayam toward Pondok Rajeg, Cibinong, or Bojong Gede to Cilebut and ; it comprises over 20 stations on the main path plus branches. The Rangkasbitung Line (green) connects Tanah Abang to , covering 19 stations and serving southern suburbs including Serpong. An extension to Merak (dark green) adds 11 stations beyond for Banten connectivity. The Tangerang Line (brown) operates independently from Duri to , spanning 10 stations and linking to industrial zones in . The Line, often configured in loop patterns (blue), links Tanah Abang to via routes through Duri-Jatinegara or other segments, with varying station counts such as 12 or 10 depending on the pattern, targeting eastern suburbs and industrial parks in and . The short Tanjung Priok Line (pink) branches from Jakarta Kota to , serving just 4 stations for port access in .
LineColorPrimary EndpointsStations
BogorRedJakarta Kota – Bogor/Nambo20+
RangkasbitungGreenTanah Abang – Rangkasbitung19
TangerangBrownDuri – Tangerang10
Cikarang (Loop)BlueTanah Abang – Cikarang (var.)7–12
Tanjung PriokPinkJakarta Kota – Tanjung Priok4
Merak ExtensionDark GreenRangkasbitung – Merak11

Scheduling and service frequency

The KRL Commuterline in the Jabodetabek region operates from 4:00 a.m. to midnight daily, encompassing approximately 1,063 weekday trips under the Grafik Perjalanan Kereta Api (GAPEKA) 2025 schedule effective February 1, 2025. This represents an increase of 15 trips from the prior 1,048, aimed at optimizing travel times and capacity amid rising ridership. Schedules are coordinated across integrated lines (B, C, R, T, etc.) with departures from major hubs like Manggarai and Tanah Abang, subject to periodic updates for infrastructure improvements or demand shifts. Service frequency is highest during peak hours—generally 6:00–9:00 a.m. and 4:00–7:00 p.m. weekdays—when s (intervals between trains) tighten to accommodate commuter surges. On the Line, peak averages 5 minutes; the Line maintains 7 minutes; and the Serpong () Line operates at 10 minutes. Off-peak intervals lengthen to 10–15 minutes or more, with further reductions outside core hours to align with lower demand, such as during midday or post-8:00 p.m. These patterns reflect signaling constraints and fleet availability, with dynamic adjustments via the app or station announcements for disruptions. Extended or modified operations occur for holidays and events; for instance, all lines ran 24 hours on 2024–2025 with up to 1,114 trips to handle festive travel. GAPEKA revisions, including those on July 1 and September 1, 2025, prioritize peak efficiency while addressing commuter feedback on crowding and reliability. Real-time tracking via integrated apps like supports adherence to these frequencies.

Infrastructure and technology

The KRL Commuterline operates on a network of 418.5 km of track, connecting 93 stations across the Greater Jakarta metropolitan area known as Jabodetabek. The tracks adhere to the 1,067 mm Cape gauge standard prevalent in Indonesian railways on Java, facilitating compatibility with imported rolling stock from manufacturers in countries like Japan that maintain similar specifications. Most routes feature double tracking to accommodate high-frequency operations and shared use with intercity services, though select outer branches, such as segments beyond Citayam on the Nambo extension, remain single-tracked, limiting capacity and requiring manual scheduling coordination. Electrification employs a 1,500 V DC overhead system, originally introduced on the Tanjung Priok to Jatinegara line in the early as Indonesia's first narrow-gauge electric . This setup powers electric multiple units (EMUs) via pantographs, with substations converting high-voltage grid supply to maintain consistent delivery across the network, supporting operational speeds up to 95 km/h. Modernization projects have focused on upgrading infrastructure and double-tracking to enhance reliability and reduce bottlenecks, particularly in congested corridors like those approaching central hubs. Signaling technology relies on automatic block systems, supplemented by ongoing enhancements to automatic signaling for improved train separation and safety amid dense traffic. Maintenance facilities, including depots at locations such as and , support track inspections, repairs, and integration of digital monitoring tools, though legacy infrastructure continues to pose challenges like voltage drops during peak loads.

Stations

Major interchanges and hubs

Manggarai Station operates as the central interchange hub within the KRL Commuterline network, enabling seamless transfers between the Bogor Line and Cikarang Loop Line services, while also linking to the Soekarno-Hatta and long-distance trains. Opened in the colonial era, it has evolved into Jakarta's busiest rail transit point, processing high volumes of commuter traffic daily due to its strategic position in . Tanah Abang Station ranks among the network's major hubs, functioning as a terminus for the Rangkasbitung Line and supporting Cikarang Loop Line operations, with recent infrastructure enhancements in June 2025 boosting its capacity to accommodate up to 300,000 passengers per day. Established in 1899, the station's revitalization includes optimized platform layouts for improved arrival and departure flows, enhancing overall efficiency for inter-line transfers and multimodal connections. Duri Station provides essential interchange capabilities between the Tangerang Line and Line, serving as a critical junction in for passengers traveling to and from province. Kampung Bandan Station facilitates transfers for Line services and elements of the Cikarang Loop Line, acting as a northern terminus and connectivity point near Jakarta's areas.

Busiest stations by ridership

Stasiun consistently ranks as the busiest on the KRL Commuterline by passenger ridership, serving as a primary departure point for commuters traveling from into . In 2023, it recorded 15.308 million departing passengers, the highest among all stations. This volume reflects the station's strategic position at the western terminus of the Bogor Line, handling peak-hour influxes from suburban residential areas. During the first semester of 2025 (January to June), Bogor Station maintained its lead with 8,888,669 passengers, underscoring sustained demand amid and limited alternative transport options in the region. Other high-ridership stations include Tanah Abang and , which benefit from their proximity to districts and integration with other transit modes; for example, in mid-2025 monthly data, Tanah Abang handled 1,193,887 passengers and Sudirman 1,099,000. Stasiun Manggarai, a critical interchange for multiple lines including the Bogor Line and Cikarang Loop Line, experiences elevated ridership through transits rather than origin-destination trips alone. It averaged 160,000 to 162,000 daily transit passengers in the first half of 2025, contributing to its role as the system's operational bottleneck during rush hours. In 2024, Manggarai facilitated 57.9 million transit movements, a figure that highlights capacity strains despite infrastructure upgrades.
StationRidership PeriodPassengersNotes
First semester 20258,888,669Highest overall; primarily departures.
Full year 202315,308,000 (departures)Peak suburban origin.
ManggaraiFirst semester 2025160,000–162,000 daily transits (average)Interchange hub; excludes pure boardings/alightings.
ManggaraiFull year 202457,900,000 transitsReflects hub function amid network convergence.
Tanah AbangMid-2025 (monthly example)1,193,887Central business access.
These figures, drawn from PT KAI Commuter reports, indicate ridership concentrations driven by radial commuting patterns, with suburban endpoints like absorbing residential outflows and central nodes managing transfers. Growth trends, such as the 7–15% year-over-year increases observed in 2024–2025, stem from economic recovery and urban expansion, though they exacerbate overcrowding at these sites without proportional capacity expansions.

Facilities and accessibility features

Stations of the KRL Commuterline are equipped with essential passenger amenities including ticket vending machines, manned counters, waiting areas, restrooms, and real-time schedule displays to facilitate efficient boarding and travel information access. Many stations also include commercial zones for retail and services, rooms, and areas to support diverse user needs. Accessibility features have been progressively enhanced, particularly at major interchanges, with installations of elevators, escalators, fixed and portable ramps, and tactile guiding blocks to assist visually impaired passengers. Portable aluminum ramps, introduced in 2017, enable users to bridge the gap between platforms and train floors, while priority seating and dedicated spaces in air-conditioned trains accommodate mobility-impaired individuals. Audio and visual announcements provide information in stations and trains, supplemented by available wheelchairs at select locations. Despite these provisions, varies across the network, with an average facility availability of 77.5% in surveyed stations as of 2022, and challenges persisting for blind passengers due to inconsistent platform-to-train gaps and incomplete tactile implementations. Ongoing commitments by PT KAI Commuter include expanding these features, such as additional guiding blocks and ramps, to promote inclusivity, though full barrier-free access remains incomplete at smaller or older stations.

Rolling Stock

Active air-conditioned fleet

![205 series EMU entering Gondangdia Station](./assets/JR_205-74_12sf_%2540_Gondangdia_2023071320230713 The active air-conditioned fleet of the KRL Commuterline primarily comprises refurbished electric multiple units (EMUs) originally from Japanese operators and newly procured sets from , with operations standardized to air-conditioned service by 2025. These trains serve the Jabodetabek network, providing cooled interiors to improve passenger comfort amid tropical conditions. A significant addition to the fleet is the CLI-125 series (also designated SFC120-V), manufactured by Locomotive and Rolling Stock. Eleven 12-car sets of this model entered service progressively from June 1, 2025, to September 26, 2025, each with a capacity of 3,400 passengers, enhanced , digital displays, indicator lights, and gray priority seating. The first set arrived in on January 31, 2025, following a contract signed on January 31, 2024, and these trains operate on routes including to . Refurbished Japanese EMUs, such as the sourced from JR East and (originally operated 1985–2018), remain in active use after adaptation for local conditions, including air conditioning retrofits. These stainless steel-bodied trains feature enclosed driver's cabs and contribute to the fleet's reliability on high-density lines. Other active series include the EA203, known for aerodynamic design with white, orange, and blue livery. By mid-2025, had integrated eight CLI-125 sets (96 cars total) to replace aging units, part of a broader order for 27 new trains aimed at modernizing the network. These procurements address capacity demands, with features like stronger AC systems and ergonomic interiors enhancing service quality.

Non-air-conditioned and retired units

The non-air-conditioned units of the KRL Commuterline, primarily designated as trains, were discontinued on 25 July 2013 as part of a shift to unified air-conditioned commuter service to enhance comfort and standardize operations across the network. These units, lacking climate control, were characterized by open windows and basic ventilation, serving lower-fare s until their phase-out. All non-AC was fully retired from service by 2014 due to age, maintenance challenges, and the operator's focus on modernizing the fleet with air-conditioned vehicles. Key non-AC series included the ED101, Indonesia's inaugural Japanese-sourced electric multiple units imported between 1976 and 1987, employing rheostatic braking and bodies for durability in economy operations. Other retired non-AC types encompassed variants of the 103, 203, and early , originally non-air-conditioned second-hand imports from that operated from the early 2000s until their withdrawal amid fleet upgrades. Beyond non-AC stock, retired air-conditioned units have included older refurbished sets like certain Holec EMUs from the , suspended or scrapped post-2015 due to exceeding limits and high failure rates. Recent retirements involve approximately 10 air-conditioned trainsets phased out in 2023, with plans for 19 more by the end of 2024, reflecting ongoing efforts to replace aging imported amid capacity demands. These withdrawals have been driven by structural fatigue, parts scarcity, and the introduction of newer domestic and imported fleets to maintain reliability.

Recent procurements and future deliveries

In February 2024, PT Kereta Commuter Indonesia () procured three 12-car (EMU) train sets from CRRC Sifang Locomotive & Rolling Stock Co., Ltd. in , valued at Rp 830 billion (approximately US$53 million), to address immediate capacity shortages amid aging fleet retirements. These KCI-SFC120-V series trains, featuring modern air-conditioning and higher passenger capacity, entered commercial service on the Jabodetabek lines starting June 1, 2025, replacing older non-air-conditioned units. To further expand the fleet urgently, announced in July the procurement of eight additional 12-car EMU sets from , valued at Rp 2.2 trillion (approximately US$140 million), bringing the total Chinese imports to eleven sets; deliveries for these were slated to commence progressively from late 2025 onward. This decision prioritized rapid delivery timelines over domestic alternatives, despite competitive bids from Japanese manufacturers, due to the pressing need to serve projected daily ridership exceeding 1 million passengers. Domestically, in October 2023, signed a contract for 16 new 12-car sets from state-owned (INKA), valued at Rp 3.83 trillion (approximately US$242 million), with initial deliveries of seven sets received by mid-2025 and the remaining nine scheduled through 2026. These INKA-built , designed for compatibility with existing infrastructure, incorporate local manufacturing to reduce long-term dependency on imports. Collectively, these efforts form part of a broader initiative to introduce 27 new train sets (324 cars) by 2026, aiming to retire obsolete , boost service frequency, and accommodate growth toward 2.5 million daily users on the Greater Jakarta network. Future deliveries include the balance of INKA orders and potential further imports if ridership demands exceed current projections, with ongoing of existing units as a complementary measure.

Ticketing and Fares

Fare calculation and zones

The fares for KRL Commuterline in the Jabodetabek region are determined by the linear distance traveled between origin and destination stations, employing a tiered progressive structure rather than discrete zones. This system charges a of IDR 3,000 for distances up to 25 kilometers, with an additional IDR 1,000 applied for each subsequent 10 kilometers or portion thereof. Distances are measured along the rail network, and fares can be verified via the official KAI Commuter mobile application or station validators, which compute charges automatically upon tap-in and tap-out using contactless cards. This distance-based model, implemented to reflect actual travel extent and operational costs, supplanted a prior regime that tallied fares by the number of stations traversed. As of 2025, no formal zonal divisions—such as concentric rings or area-based pricing common in some metropolitan rail systems—govern KRL pricing; instead, the tiered increments ensure scalability for the network's extensive coverage spanning and surrounding regencies like , , , and . Proposals for income-differentiated fares linked to national ID numbers () were discussed for potential rollout in 2025 but have not altered the core distance calculation, maintaining uniformity across socioeconomic groups amid public criticism of equity concerns.
Distance RangeFare (IDR)Example Routes
Up to 25 km3,000Bekasi to Manggarai (approx. 20 km); Tanah Abang to Jakarta Kota (approx. 10 km)
26–35 km4,000Cikarang to Manggarai (approx. 30 km)
36–45 km5,000Cikarang to Tanah Abang (approx. 40 km)
46–55 km6,000Bogor to Jakarta Kota (approx. 55 km)
Over 55 km7,000+Bekasi to Bogor (approx. 65 km, adding further tiers)
Fares apply uniformly to all passengers using multi-trip cards like KAI Access or bank-issued e-money, with single-journey paper tickets discontinued to promote electronic validation and reduce evasion. Adjustments, such as the increase aligning base rates closer to cost recovery, have been infrequent, subsidized by government allocations to keep affordability high relative to Jakarta's urban transport alternatives.

Payment systems and integration

Passengers on the KRL Commuterline primarily use electronic ticketing systems, with cash no longer accepted at station gates since the shift to full e-ticketing. The Kartu Multi Trip (KMT), a rechargeable stored-value utilizing technology, serves as the dedicated fare card for multiple trips, available for purchase and top-up at station vending machines or counters. Various bank-issued e-money cards, including Mandiri e-Money, BRIZZI, and Flazz, are also compatible for tapping at gates, enabling seamless entry and fare deduction based on distance traveled. Digital payment options have expanded to include QR code-based entry via mobile apps and e-wallets. Since October 1, 2019, station scanners have accepted QR codes generated through apps like LinkAja for ticket purchase and validation. GoTransit, integrated into the app since June 22, 2022, allows users to buy KRL tickets using GoPay or LinkAja balances, producing a for gate access; fares are deducted upon exit, with a maximum pre-authorization of Rp13,000 refunded for shorter trips. As of October 2025, NFC-based QRIS Tap payments via GoPay enable contactless fare deduction directly from e-wallets at gates, further reducing reliance on physical cards. Integration with broader Jakarta public transport systems remains partial, as KRL operates under while modes like TransJakarta, MRT, and LRT use the JakLingko platform. Efforts to align payment systems, including testing unified e-money cards and fare structures across KRL and JakLingko, were under review by mid-2023, but full has not been implemented, requiring separate cards or apps for multi-modal trips. Some overlap exists through compatible e-money cards accepted on both KRL and JakLingko networks, though passengers often carry multiple payment methods to navigate transfers. GoTransit facilitates limited multi-modal planning by combining KRL tickets with ride-hailing, but adoption remains low due to user preferences for established cards over app-based QR systems.

Subsidy policies and pricing adjustments

The Indonesian government provides subsidies to PT Kereta Commuter Indonesia (), the operator of the KRL Commuterline, through the (PSO) mechanism to bridge the gap between low regulated fares and operational costs, ensuring affordability for mass transit users in the Greater area. These PSO funds, allocated annually via the state , have averaged over trillion specifically for commuter services since , with realizations such as Rp2.14 trillion in , Rp1.4 trillion in , and Rp1.6 trillion in 2023. For 2025, the overall PSO allocation to PT (KAI), including commuter operations, totals Rp4.79 trillion within a broader Rp7.96 trillion transportation PSO . This funding supports maintenance, fleet expansion, and service reliability while keeping fares below cost-recovery levels, as operational expenses per passenger exceed ticket revenue. Current fares, unchanged since the last adjustment on , 2016—which raised the base rate by Rp1,000—stand at Rp3,000 for the first 25 kilometers, plus Rp1,000 for each additional 10 kilometers, capped at Rp13,000 for longer routes like to . This structure, governed by Ministry of Transportation regulations such as PM 17/2018, prioritizes accessibility to encourage ridership over 1 million daily passengers, thereby alleviating road congestion and externalities not captured in unsubsidized pricing. In 2024, the Ministry of Transportation proposed two adjustments: a flat Rp1,000 fare increase across zones to partially offset rising costs like energy and maintenance, and a shift to National Identification Number (NIK)-based subsidies targeting low-income eligibility via integrated databases. The NIK model aimed to rationalize the universal subsidy—currently benefiting all users regardless of income—by raising fares for middle- and upper-income passengers, potentially increasing base rates to Rp4,000 or more for non-subsidized trips. However, both faced backlash from users, economists, and observers, who argued that differentiated pricing could reduce overall ridership, undermine public transport's role in modal shift from private vehicles, and complicate ticketing without proportional efficiency gains, given enforcement challenges in a high-volume system. The proposals remain under review pending the new cabinet's input, with no implementation as of late 2024, preserving the flat-rate status quo.

Performance Metrics

Ridership on the KRL Commuterline experienced a sharp decline during the , dropping 54% to 154.6 million passengers in 2020 compared to pre-pandemic levels, primarily due to mobility restrictions and shifts to . Recovery accelerated post-2021, with annual figures rising to 127.8 million passengers in 2021, 217.9 million in 2022, and reaching 331 million in 2023—a 38% year-over-year increase reflecting eased restrictions and renewed urban commuting demand. This upward trend persisted into 2024 and 2025, with first-semester ridership totaling 156.8 million passengers in and climbing to 166.4 million in 2025, driven by in the Jabodetabek metropolitan area and limited alternatives for mass transit. Monthly data underscores the momentum: July 2025 alone saw 31.4 million passengers, a 7.39% increase from July , with average weekday volumes exceeding 1 million during peaks and a single-day record of 1,192,018 passengers on July 7, 2025.
YearAnnual Ridership (millions)Key Notes
2020154.654% decline due to restrictions
2021127.8Initial recovery phase
2022217.9Post-restriction rebound
2023331.038% YoY growth
Capacity utilization averaged 62.75% annually as of 2023, based on operational data from , though this masks peak-hour loads often exceeding design limits on 8- to 12-car trainsets rated for 80-110 passengers per car. Recent fleet additions, including Chinese-manufactured electric multiple units introduced in June 2025, boost per-train capacity by 8% to approximately 3,400 passengers, aiming to accommodate projected 4-6% annual ridership growth amid infrastructure constraints at key nodes like Manggarai Station.

Reliability and on-time performance

The KRL Commuterline, operated by PT Kereta Commuter Indonesia (), has reported on-time performance rates consistently above 98% in recent years, with departure reaching 99% during the first semester of 2024 amid record ridership volumes exceeding 156 million passengers. This metric, calculated based on scheduled departures and arrivals within acceptable tolerances, reflects operational improvements including enhanced signaling systems and fleet maintenance following the integration of new . In the first half of 2025, for departures stood at 98.6% and arrivals at 98%, serving 166.4 million passengers while navigating peak-hour demands averaging over 1 million daily users. These figures, derived from KCI's internal tracking, indicate reliability bolstered by infrastructure upgrades such as the Manggarai Station redevelopment, though external factors like signal interference and track maintenance occasionally contribute to delays. Performance dips during high-demand periods, such as the 2024 Lebaran holidays, where on-time rates fell below 100% due to increased passenger surges and temporary service adjustments, highlighting vulnerabilities in capacity management despite baseline reliability. Overall, KCI attributes sustained high punctuality to proactive measures like real-time monitoring and contingency scheduling, positioning the system as one of Southeast Asia's more dependable urban rail networks by operator benchmarks.

Economic and environmental impacts

The KRL Commuterline supports economic activity in Greater by transporting an average of 896,000 passengers daily in 2024, enabling workforce mobility and access to business districts amid rapid . This scale of ridership reduces reliance on congested roads, mitigating annual economic losses from estimated at Rp 100 trillion in the through time savings and enhanced . Station-area development has further stimulated local , with growth in markets, retail outlets, and services driven by increased foot and . Operationally, the system incurs significant fiscal costs, including government subsidies totaling Rp 4.79 trillion for obligations in to sustain low fares—Rp 3,000 base for the first 25 km—below full recovery levels, representing a transfer from public funds to users that prioritizes affordability over cost recovery. These subsidies, while enabling broad usage, highlight tensions in , as unsubsidized fares would exceed current levels to cover maintenance and energy expenses. Environmentally, the KRL Commuterline lowers per-passenger emissions compared to private vehicles by shifting commuters to electric rail, alleviating congestion and associated exhaust pollutants in a where contributes substantially to urban air quality issues. This modal shift supports Indonesia's broader reduction targets, as rail efficiency reduces overall carbon intensity despite the national grid's reliance on fossil fuels. Integration with and other modes amplifies these gains by fostering lower-emission travel patterns, though quantification of KRL-specific CO2 savings remains limited in available assessments.

Challenges and Criticisms

Safety incidents and accident analysis

The KRL Commuterline has recorded numerous safety incidents since its expansion in the early 2000s, with collisions at level crossings accounting for the majority, often resulting from road users disregarding signals or barriers. A significant event occurred on September 23, 2015, when two commuter trains collided at Juanda Station in , injuring 42 passengers after one train struck the rear of another; investigations pointed to potential signaling or operational errors, though no fatalities were reported. On December 5, 2015, a KRL train struck a minibus at a level crossing in , killing 16 people and injuring eight others, underscoring vulnerabilities at unguarded or poorly maintained crossings. In 2016, multiple incidents highlighted ongoing risks: on May 9, a pedestrian was killed near Palmerah Station after attempting to cross tracks following a commuter 's passage; on May 13, a was hit between Cilebut and Bojong Gede stations on the Bogor-Duri route, with no fatalities; and on May 18, a derailed between and Manggarai stations on the Jakarta-Bogor line, also without casualties but disrupting service. More recently, on February 8, 2024, a KRL on the Tanah Abang-Rangkasbitung line killed two individuals in a collision, likely at a crossing, while an April 13, 2024, in resulted in no injuries after full evacuation. Accident analysis reveals human factors as the primary cause, with motorists and pedestrians frequently cited for unsafe crossing behaviors, such as ignoring gates or misjudging speeds, exacerbated by high frequencies—up to 1,300 daily trips—and dense urban integration. In PT KAI Daop 1 Jakarta's operational area, which encompasses KRL routes, external factors like violations drove 12 of 25 accidents in 2016, while 2022 saw 143 incidents at unguarded crossings. By August 2025, 24 crossing accidents yielded 15 deaths and 23 injuries, predominantly involving pedestrians, reflecting persistent enforcement gaps despite infrastructure upgrades like automated gates. Efforts to mitigate risks include signaling modernizations and crossing eliminations via flyovers, yet progress lags due to funding constraints and rapid ; safety indices, calculated as accidents per million train-kilometers, indicate marginal improvements but underscore the need for stricter penalties on violators and better to address causal chains rooted in behavioral non-compliance rather than systemic rail failures.

Overcrowding and operational bottlenecks

The KRL Commuterline experiences persistent overcrowding, particularly during peak hours, as daily ridership frequently surpasses train capacity. In mid-2024, average weekday passengers reached 987,000, an increase from 830,000 in 2023, straining the system's approximately 1,000 daily trips across multiple lines. July 2025 data showed 31.4 million passengers served, a 7.39% year-over-year rise, exacerbating load factors where trains operate beyond designed occupancy, leading to passengers standing densely or accessing external areas unsafely. Operational bottlenecks compound , with Manggarai Station—a central interchange handling and commuter lines—frequently cited as a primary chokepoint due to insufficient platform capacity and track configurations that limit throughput. The station's struggles to manage converging routes, resulting in cascading delays as incoming trains await clearance, especially during morning and evening rushes. Fleet constraints further hinder operations; by 2023, and delays prompted reductions in train formations from 12 to 10 cars (or 10 to 8), diminishing overall by up to 20% on affected services until new units arrive. Schedule adjustments, such as those implemented in October 2023 for the line, have reduced maximum speeds and extended travel times to accommodate signaling limitations and track sharing with long-distance services, indirectly worsening peak-hour congestion. Legislators have warned that unchecked poses safety risks akin to a "ticking ," prompting calls for infrastructure upgrades like expanded signaling and additional , though delivery timelines extend into 2025 or later. New electric multiple units (EMUs) from , introduced in 2025 with a 3,400-passenger capacity per trip, aim to mitigate these issues by replacing older 8-car sets, but systemic bottlenecks at key nodes like Manggarai persist without parallel station expansions.

Procurement controversies and import issues

In early 2023, PT Kereta Commuter Indonesia (KCI), the operator of the KRL Commuterline, proposed importing 348 used (EMU) cars from to address fleet shortages from retiring aging trains, potentially affecting service for up to 200,000 daily passengers if not resolved. The plan aimed to quickly bolster capacity amid rising ridership exceeding 1 million passengers per day, as domestic production by (INKA) could not meet immediate timelines. However, the Corruption Eradication and Prevention Commission (BPKP) audit in April 2023 deemed the import inappropriate, citing available domestic assets for refurbishment and potential non-compliance with regulations prioritizing new local manufacturing. The proposal violated three key regulations: Presidential Regulation No. 95/2018 on electronic systems, Ministry of Transportation Regulation No. 62/2019 restricting used rail imports, and Ministry of Industry Regulation No. 11/2020 mandating local content development to support INKA's growth. Ministries of Industry and SOEs opposed the imports, arguing they undermined national railway industry progress despite short-term operational pressures, with the Industry Ministry viewing used imports as a last resort only after exhausting refurbishment options. By June 2023, the government canceled the Japanese import, prompting KCI to contract INKA for 16 new trainsets to be delivered in stages through 2025-2026, though this delayed capacity additions and risked service reductions in the interim. In January 2024, KCI shifted to importing three new EMU sets from China's Sifang Co., Ltd., at a cost of Rp 783 billion (approximately $50 million), selected after revised its proposal, making the Chinese option cheaper per unit. This decision sparked debate, with critics alleging undue influence from Chinese leverage over high-speed rail financing, though KCI denied any threats or conflicts of interest, emphasizing technical and cost evaluations. The Ministry of Transportation approved the imports despite the pivot from , but highlighted adaptation challenges, as KCI personnel were trained primarily on Japanese systems, potentially complicating maintenance and operations for the Chinese trains. By July 2024, plans emerged for additional Chinese imports to supplement INKA's output, which remained insufficient for Jabodetabek demands.

Policy debates on fares and subsidies

The Indonesian government provides substantial subsidies to the KRL Commuterline through obligations (PSO), enabling fares as low as Rp 3,000 (approximately US$0.19) for the first 25 kilometers, despite operational costs exceeding this amount by a factor of several times. In 2022, these subsidies totaled Rp 2.14 trillion, covering the gap between revenue and expenses to maintain affordability for the system's over 1 million daily passengers in the Jabodetabek region. Policy debates intensified in 2024 over proposals to shift to a (NIK)-based scheme, which would link eligibility to income data from population records, requiring higher earners to pay unsubsidized market rates—potentially Rp 5,000 or more for initial segments plus increments. Proponents, including elements within the Ministry of Transportation, argued this would target aid to low-income users, enhancing fiscal efficiency amid budget constraints and reducing subsidies for middle-class commuters who could afford full fares. However, the plan faced immediate backlash from commuters and observers, who contended it undermines the universal accessibility essential to mass transit's role in alleviating Jakarta's chronic congestion and . Critics, including KRL user groups like KRLMania and sociologists from Universitas Airlangga, highlighted risks of reduced ridership among middle-income users, potentially driving them to private vehicles and exacerbating traffic—evidenced by Jakarta's average commute times already exceeding 60 minutes daily. They noted the KRL subsidy's scale (under 1% of total transport subsidies) pales against fuel and incentives, suggesting broader fiscal reforms over targeted cuts that could foster social divisions or contradict government campaigns for adoption. President distanced himself from the proposal in September 2024, stating no formal discussions had occurred, while officials deferred implementation pending the new cabinet under President . Earlier iterations, such as 2023 plans to eliminate subsidies for higher earners, similarly provoked protests, underscoring a recurring tension between cost recovery for PT KAI Commuter—plagued by aging infrastructure—and the system's mandate as a subsidized public good prioritizing volume over per-passenger revenue to achieve network effects in urban mobility. Economists from LPEM Institute argued for alternatives like progressive taxation funding universal low fares, preserving incentives for high-capacity usage over income verification, which administrative hurdles could render ineffective.

References

  1. https://www.[researchgate](/page/ResearchGate).net/publication/391423326_Analisis_Perbandingan_Sistem_Persinyalan_Konvensional_Dengan_CBTC_Terhadap_Headway_Kereta_Api
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