Flat Wagons Gradually Arrive in South Sumatra, KAI Strengthens National Energy Distribution and Supports Domestic Products
PT Kereta Api Indonesia (Persero) continues to advance the delivery of flat cars as part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen national logistics services and demonstrate concrete support for domestic manufacturing. By mid-April 2026, a total of 13 trainsets (TS)—equivalent to 780 flat car units—have arrived at Simpang, Regional Division (Divre) III Palembang.
Distribution processes remain ongoing in stages. Currently, 1 trainset consisting of 60 flat car units is undergoing unloading at the location, while another trainset is en route from Banyuwangi to Simpang, Palembang. Additionally, 1 trainset is scheduled to undergo static testing in Banyuwangi on April 20, 2026, as part of operational readiness procedures.
This shipment forms part of a total procurement of 1,125 flat car units scheduled for delivery through July 2026. This fleet expansion aims to boost freight transport capacity in Southern Sumatra, particularly to support the distribution of strategic commodities.
Deliveries began on July 6, 2025, originating from PT INKA's manufacturing facility in Banyuwangi. All cars are domestically produced with a high Domestic Component Level (TKDN), reflecting KAI's commitment to fostering national industrial self-reliance and strengthening Indonesia's railway manufacturing ecosystem. Each trainset comprises 60 BM 54-type flat car units with a load capacity of 15 tons per unit, enabling a single rake to haul up to 900 tons per trip.
The BM 54 flat cars are engineered to transport heavy and bulky commodities, ranging from containers and construction materials to coal. Growing demands for coal distribution make rail freight increasingly vital in sustaining national energy supplies.
In line with this, KAI has recorded continuous growth in its coal transport performance.
In March 2026, transport volume reached 4,634,929 tons, an increase compared to 4,436,996 tons during the same period last year. Cumulatively throughout the first quarter of 2026, coal freight volumes reached 12,075,002 tons.
This performance highlights a steady energy distribution flow from production areas to consumption hubs, serving as part of the critical infrastructure supporting electricity supplies for communities and industries across various regions.
"We direct this freight fleet enhancement to ensure the consistent and timely distribution of strategic commodities, including coal for power plants. At the same time, utilizing domestic products remains a vital element in generating added value for the national industry," stated Vice President of Corporate Communication at KAI, Anne Purba.
An investment of Rp1.05 trillion allocated for the procurement of these 1,125 flat cars represents a strategic move to scale up the capacity and competitiveness of rail-based freight transport, while underscoring a strong commitment to domestic products. This development direction also supports the shift toward more efficient, low-emission logistics transportation modes.
"This procurement is part of KAI's long-term strategy to achieve the 2029 Long-Term Corporate Plan (RJPP) targets, where coal freight is projected to reach 111.2 million tons and non-coal freight 10.9 million tons. We also ensure that this fleet reinforcement aligns seamlessly with efforts to drive the competitiveness of domestic industries," Anne explained.
"Through this fleet reinforcement, KAI continues to expand its role within the national logistics system. Beyond ensuring smooth goods distribution and energy supplies, every operational movement serves as a form of support for national industrial progress," Anne concluded.
VP Corporate Communication KAI