Facts on the ground show that double-double tracks only exist on the line from Manggarai Station to Bekasi Station. This condition causes the line from Bekasi Station to Cikarang Station to only have two lines that must be used alternately with Long Distance Trains (KAJJ). As a result, there are often high delays due to these infrastructure limitations.
Old Fleet Condition
Most of the Electric Rail Train (KRL) fleet in Jabodetabek is more than 30 years old. Some units even reach an operational age of more than 40 years. The old age of the fleet affects the performance and reliability of the trains. This is because the majority of the KRL fleet is a used or donated fleet from JR (Japan Railways). Based on the investigation conducted, the majority of the KRL fleet was produced in the 1980s with the starting year of service in Indonesia in the 2014-2016 period.
Passengers often complain about the condition of the old fleet, with various technical problems that often occur during the trip. Damages such as jammed doors, malfunctioning air conditioners, and electrical problems have become a common sight. These problems not only disrupt comfort but also threaten passenger safety.
Technical malfunctions are the most common problems complained about by passengers. Here are some technical problems that often occur in the KRL fleet:
Stalled Doors
The frequent technical problem of jammed train doors has become a serious concern. Train doors that cannot open or close properly not only hamper the process of getting on and off passengers, but also pose a safety risk. As a result, trains are held up for long periods of time, passengers have to be transferred to other trains, and there is a buildup of passengers at the station.
Various factors can cause this incident, such as mechanical failure, motor failure, electrical system failure, lack of maintenance, or external factors. Lastly, a door jam incident occurred on January 30, 2024. According to the Kompas.com report, this incident occurred on Commuter Line No. 1772 route Tanah Abang-Rangkasbitung at 18.17 WIB at Pondok Ranji Station. The cause was a spring bed wire that was caught under the train, causing delays in other commuter line trips for 15-30 minutes.
Malfunctioning Air Conditioner
The problem of air conditioning not working properly is a common complaint on electric trains (KRL). In crowded trains, poor air-conditioning causes discomfort for passengers, especially during hot weather. This situation also increases health risks such as dehydration and heat exhaustion.
There are frequent instances where the air-conditioning is not working properly, resulting in many passengers opening the train windows due to overheating. This further worsens passenger comfort, especially during peak hours when the train is crowded.
Electrical Problems
Electrical problems in the KRL fleet are one of the main causes of operational disruption and passenger inconvenience. A reliable electrical system is essential to ensure the train's various components, from the drive motor to the passenger facilities, function properly.
Reporting from kompas.com, this incident occurred last time on February 12, 2023. The Commuter Rail Train (KRL) majoring in Manggarai-Bekasi had stopped operating due to an Electricity Overflow (LAA) disturbance. Making the Commuter KRL majoring in Manggarai-Bekasi stop operating at 06:03-08:37 on that day.
Supporting Facilities
