President Prabowo Subianto visited victims of a deadly Bekasi train collision on Tuesday, ordering a full investigation after a long-distance train crashed into a stationary commuter train, killing 14 people and injuring more than 80.
- Casualties: 14 confirmed fatalities and over 80 injuries.
- Preliminary Cause: A stalled electric taxi at a level crossing triggered a chain of events and delayed warning signals.
- Government Action: Immediate approval of flyover construction to secure urgent railway crossings across Java.
Government Response to Bekasi Train Collision
During his visit to Bekasi Regional Hospital, President Prabowo expressed condolences for the tragedy and pledged a comprehensive investigation into the cause of the accident.
The President announced that the government will evaluate railway crossings, particularly in densely populated areas like Bekasi, West Java, where many remain poorly guarded.
Prabowo stated he has approved the immediate construction of flyovers through presidential assistance. He noted that approximately 1,800 similar crossings across Java require urgent attention and promised improvements through either guard posts or new flyovers.
Sequence of Events
Preliminary reports indicate the incident began when an electric taxi stalled at a level crossing and was struck by a commuter train traveling from Cikarang to Bekasi, which disrupted traffic on the line.
While another commuter train traveling from Jakarta to Cikarang was stopping near East Bekasi Station, the Argo Bromo Anggrek intercity train collided with it. Authorities allege the collision followed a delay in warning signals.
The impact was most severe on the last carriage, a women-only car, resulting in the majority of the fatalities and injuries.
Rescue Operations and Casualties
A rescue operation lasting nearly 12 hours concluded Tuesday morning. Officials confirmed 14 deaths and more than 80 injuries.
Among the injured was 40-year-old Endang Kuswati, who was trapped in the wreckage for approximately 10 hours. Her cousin, Muhammad Iqbal, reported that Kuswati called her family for help around 10 p.m. before being evacuated at 7 a.m. Tuesday.
Kuswati was transported to Bekasi Regional Hospital, where she underwent X-rays to determine the extent of her injuries.
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