Jakarta-Bandung high-speed train to operate in mid-2023

Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: Indonesian Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan made assurance that work on the Jakarta-Bandung high-speed train would be completed and it would become operational in mid-2023.

Pandjaitan noted that the dynamic test would be conducted to coincide with the holding of the Indonesian G20 Presidency in mid-November.”Later, on 16th (November), there will be a dynamic test. From Bali, there will be a dynamic test, and from June to July next year, we will have commissioning,” he said when met in Jakarta, Friday.

Pandjaitan said that the cost overrun has been resolved while adding that the costs burgeoned due to technical issues, namely soil damage.”Our cost overrun has been completed. Actually, a lot of cost overrun is due to land damage. It is shaking. I think three tunnels have been disturbed, but I think (the work on) it is finished now,” he explained.He also expressed optimism that the schedule would be completed, and the operation of the mass transportation project will not be delayed any longer.”Yes, we will see everything,” he remarked.

Regarding the plan for the Jakarta-Bandung high-speed train that will continue to Surabaya, East Java, the minister assessed that it will support Indonesia’s efficiency, as the fast train from Jakarta to Surabaya will be able to complete the journey in just four hours.