Kites And Steams On LAA Cables Become Threats Of Fast Train Travel

JAKARTA - China's Indonesia Fast Train (KCIC) recorded an increase in travel disruptions due to kites involved in the fast train line electricity network.

In June 2025, there have been 50 operational disruptions caused by kites caught in the Overhead Catenary System (OCS) or the Upper Stream Electricity Network (LAA).

While the latest disruption occurred on Monday (23/6/2025), which caused delays in MAYH trips of up to 50 minutes and hampered a number ofqsh trips.

General Manager of KCIC Corporate Secretary, Eva Chairunisa, explained that the number of disturbances caused by kites has increased since April and May.

"In the beginning of the year we only recorded around 7 to 8 incidents per month. However, since April and entering school holidays, the number has jumped to more than 20 incidents per month. This should be a serious concern for all parties," said Eva, Tuesday (24/6/2025).

Eva said there was a ban on playing kites within a 500 meter radius from the left and right sides of the railroad tracks.

The reason is, kites caught in LAA cables can cause electrical short circuits, power outages, travel operational disruptions, to the safety threat of high-speed train travel up to 350 km/hour.

"Every time a foreign object is detected as a floating kite gets stuck, officers have to lower the speed of the train, and even stop traveling for a moment to ensure safety and remove the kite," he said.

Eva said the most disturbances occurred in the areas of West Bandung, Cimahi, and Bandung, precisely between Padalarang Station and Tegalluar Summarecon. This incident was exacerbated during the school holidays so that there was an increase in kite games at the location.

KCIC has also alerted more than 530 security personnel spread across stations and along the operational route

These officers carry out patrols every 500 meters for a full 24 hours to prevent potential disturbances such as kites caught on the Rightline.

KCIC also synergizes with the TNI, Polri, and regional officials in ensuring that the lane area remains sterile from foreign objects and dangerous activities.