The progress of the Nusantara Capital City (IKN) takes a step forward with the introduction of an innovative mode of transportation. Alongside the ongoing construction of an airport, IKN is set to incorporate a state-of-the-art trackless train known as Automated Rail Transit (ART), a creation from China.
Transportation Minister Budi Karya Sumadi shared this exciting development. According to Budi Karya, the collaboration for ART’s construction involves the China Railway Construction Corporation Limited, the same company currently engaged in the Whoosh project, the high-speed train connecting Jakarta to Bandung.
“InshaAllah, we are anticipating the construction of the Autonomous Rail Transit (ART) in the Nusantara Capital (IKN) within the West and East Axis regions,” expressed Budi Karya Sumadi in a recent Instagram post @budikaryas, quoted on Thursday (25/1/2024).
He detailed that the Automated Rail Transit ART project would unfold in two phases, working closely with the IKN Authority and the Ministry of Public Works and Public Housing. Budi Karya highlighted that this trackless train operates using battery-powered technology, replaced by road markings and magnets. The ART boasts a total capacity of 324 passengers, with an operational speed of 40 km/h, reaching a maximum of 70 km/h.
Budi Karya emphasized that this autonomous train features a single trainset comprising three cars, each capable of accommodating 300 passengers. The ART, distinguished by its reliance on virtual rails rather than conventional ones, is envisioned to be a reliable transportation option, aspiring to become the future mode of transport in major Indonesian cities.
With this initiative, Budi Karya disclosed that Indonesia would proudly stand as the first country outside China to host the ART.
Having personally inspected the construction site for this advanced train, the Minister underscored the project’s potential replication in other major Indonesian cities.
Expanding on the developments within IKN, Budi also shed light on the progress of other infrastructure endeavors. Beyond the introduction of the cutting-edge train, an international airport is poised to enter a trial phase later this year.
Budi shared that between January and July, there would be a significant focus on construction activities and operational preparations for Nusantara Airport. He outlined plans to expedite the airport construction process through the addition of equipment, extended working hours, and swift resolutions for any land-related matters.
The IKN Airport aims to fortify governmental activities within IKN and enhance overall connectivity in the region.
Strategically positioned 23 km from IKN’s central point and 120 km from Balikpapan, the airport features a terminal area spanning 7,350 square meters and an expansive airport territory covering 347 hectares. The runway, measuring 3,000 meters in length and 45 meters in width, is designed to accommodate large-bodied aircraft such as the Boeing 777-3000ER and Airbus A380.
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