Train Collision at Bekasi Timur Station, YLKI Soroti Weak Safety System 

JAKARTA - The Indonesian Consumer Institute Foundation (YLKI) highlighted the weak aspect of safety in the train accident at Bekasi Timur Station involving long-distance trains and commuter line KRL, Monday evening, April 27.

This consumer protection agency assessed that the incident was not just a disaster, but also a signal of a gap in the public transportation safety system.

YLKI's daily manager Rio Priambodo questioned the reliability of the security system, which should be able to prevent accidents early on. According to Rio, the failure of the safety system in the midst of current technological developments is a serious issue that cannot be taken lightly.

"YLKI questions the reliability of the infrastructure and safety systems owned by operators. This incident shows the potential for weaknesses in the early warning system and security system, which should be able to mitigate accidents," Rio said in a statement, Tuesday, April 28.

Rio emphasized that handling victims must be the top priority, from treatment to long-term recovery. YLKI urged the acceleration of compensation for all victims without bureaucratic entanglement.

"The government must be actively present to ensure that victims obtain their rights quickly, transparently, and fairly," said Rio.

Not only that, YLKI asked the National Transportation Safety Committee to immediately conduct a thorough investigation to uncover the exact cause of the accident. He emphasized the importance of clarity whether this incident was triggered by force majeure, human error, or system failure.

On the other hand, YLKI also encourages the evaluation of train facilities and safety standards, including the placement of carriages, especially for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, and people with disabilities.

The train crossing system is also not spared from scrutiny. There needs to be a thorough evaluation of the system to prevent similar accident incidents from happening again.

"Local governments must actively comb through illegal kekreta crossings and must resolutely close them for the safety and security of the community," he said.

YLKI also reminded operators of their obligation to provide clear information to passengers, especially regarding schedules, cancellations, and refunds.

Furthermore, they encouraged the improvement of the railway system, including the separation of long-distance and commuter train lines to reduce the risk of accidents. YLKI emphasized that consumer safety is a basic right that must be guaranteed by the state and business actors.

"This incident must be a momentum to carry out a comprehensive reform of the public transportation safety system in Indonesia," he added.