The incident was not caused solely by the train operator’s negligence. According to Franoto Wibowo, Public Relations Manager of KAI Daop 1 Jakarta, the KRL was forced to stop after a green taxi sideswiped the train at a level crossing near Bulak Kapal. The KRL, which had come to a stop on the tracks, was then struck by the Argo Bromo Anggrek train approaching from behind, resulting in a violent collision that destroyed the rear section of the KRL.
The Death Toll Keeps Rising, 14 Lives Lost
The number of victims rose significantly by the hour. On the night of the incident, KAI Vice President of Corporate Communications Anne Purba reported that four people had been confirmed dead and 38 victims had been evacuated. Based on the latest data as of 8:45 a.m. the morning after, KAI President Director Bobby Rasyidin stated that the death toll had risen to 14, while 84 injured victims were receiving medical treatment at various healthcare facilities. All of the deaths were KRL passengers.
At 5:53 a.m. WIB, a joint search and rescue team was still working to evacuate three passengers trapped inside the mangled train cars. The team implemented a shift system, including cutting through the train’s metal framework to rescue them.
A total of 240 people were safely evacuated from the location, including the drivers of both trains. KAI President Director Bobby Rasyidin confirmed that no railway personnel were killed in the accident. Efforts are currently focused on the KRL passengers most severely affected by the violent collision.
KAI, in conjunction with the insurance company, will ensure that all medical expenses for the injured, compensation, and funeral costs for the deceased will be fully covered in accordance with applicable regulations.
Operations Disrupted, Investigation Underway
For the meantime, Bekasi Timur Station is not yet serving passengers boarding or alighting. KRL service is currently limited to Bekasi Station, while the downstream track has been reopened for limited train operations.
KAI Vice President of Corporate Communications Anne Purba expressed deep condolences and apologized to all customers and the families of the victims for this incident. President Prabowo reportedly visited the victims in person and ordered a thorough investigation into the incident.
