The highly anticipated High-Speed Train Jakarta-Bandung (KCJB) is soon to embark on its operational journey starting from August 18, 2023. President Joko Widodo himself will inaugurate this landmark event, and to celebrate the occasion, the government has generously offered a three-month free trial period for the public. However, eager participants must fulfill certain prerequisites in order to be eligible for this exciting opportunity.
According to Ridwan Kamil, who recently experienced the KCJB from Halim Station in Jakarta to Tegalluar Station in Bandung, “From August 18 (2023) for 90 days, the high-speed train will be gratified to the citizens. Please register online as there is a capacity for approximately 600 passengers.”
This endeavor aims to introduce the remarkable speed and efficiency of the KCJB, which can reach an impressive velocity of 345 kilometers per hour, completing the journey to Padalarang in a mere 20 minutes. While speed is an undeniable advantage, the utmost priority remains the comfort and satisfaction of the passengers.
To participate in the free trial, individuals must adhere to the specified requirements. Here are the essential details:
- Online Registration: During the trial period, a limited number of 600 free tickets will be available. The proposal for this initiative has received prior approval from the Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment, Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan. Aspiring passengers are urged to register online and actively engage in the lottery process to secure their free KCJB tickets. It is essential to act promptly, as the principle of “first come, first served” will determine the lucky beneficiaries who will have the chance to embark on this exhilarating high-speed train journey at no cost.
The specific mechanisms for obtaining these coveted free tickets have not yet been finalized and released to the public. Emir Monti, the Corporate Communication Manager of KCIC, confirmed that the details are currently under discussion. This meticulous planning ensures a seamless and efficient process for the ticket distribution.
- Priority for Residents Along the Railway Line: While the opportunity to experience the KCJB for free is undoubtedly exciting, it is important to note that the government has prioritized residents residing in the areas adjacent to the KCJB railway line. This exclusive privilege primarily applies to individuals living between Halim Station and Tegalluar Station.
- Luhut stated, “The President has instructed that we provide the people along this railway line with the opportunity to try this high-speed train for free. We hope to implement this in July.” This localized approach aims to engage and reward the communities that will directly benefit from the presence of the high-speed train.
Additionally, it is noteworthy that the government is already exploring the possibilities for the second phase of the KCJB project, which envisions an extended route from Bandung to Surabaya.
This ambitious expansion plan would enable the KCJB to serve a wider population, traversing significant locations such as Bandung, Kertajati, Yogyakarta, Solo, and Surabaya. Luhut elaborated, “Now we have started the study for the second phase from Bandung, Kertajati (Majalengka), Yogyakarta, Solo, to Surabaya using technology from China.” This forward-thinking approach demonstrates the government’s commitment to enhancing connectivity and facilitating economic growth across multiple regions in Indonesia.
As the countdown to the KCJB’s inaugural journey approaches, excitement and anticipation continue to build. The free trial period represents a unique opportunity for the public to experience the convenience and efficiency of high-speed rail transportation firsthand. By implementing advanced technological solutions and prioritizing the satisfaction of passengers, the KCJB project showcases Indonesia’s commitment to modernizing its transportation infrastructure and fostering economic development.