Barapati Switching Train Enhances Operational Efficiency of Coal Logistics in South Sumatra
PT Kereta Api Indonesia (Persero) has strengthened the operational efficiency of coal logistics services in South Sumatra through the operation of the Barapati Switching Train serving the Tanjung Enim Baru–Kertapati round-trip (pp) route. This service has been in operation since July 8, 2026, to support coal distribution for PT Bukit Asam Tbk.
KAI Vice President of Corporate Communication, Anne Purba, stated that the operation of the Barapati Switching Train is designed to enhance trainset productivity through greater load capacity in each journey.
“The Barapati Switching Train improves operational efficiency as it is capable of handling large volumes of cargo within a single trainset. This operation supports service regularity, asset optimization, and the continuity of coal distribution from Tanjung Enim,” said Anne.
In its initial phase, the Barapati Switching Train operates with a formation of 55 flat wagons hauled by a single CC205 locomotive. This extended formation offers greater capacity compared to the regular Barapati Train, which typically operates with around 32 to 33 wagons.
The wagons used are BM 54 type flat wagons. The designation BM 54 indicates a load capacity of up to 54 tons per wagon.
In a full trainset consisting of 60 BM 54 flat wagons, the train is capable of transporting up to 3,000 tons of cargo in a single trip. This capacity supports bulk cargo consolidation while optimizing the utilization of locomotives, wagons, track infrastructure, and travel time.
“The larger the volume transported in a single trip, the more optimal the utilization of assets and operational schedules. This efficiency is implemented while still considering track capacity, braking systems, train integrity, locomotive readiness, and railway safety standards,” Anne explained.
According to its operational plan, the Barapati Switching Train will serve the Tanjung Enim Baru–Kramasan round-trip route. During the completion and preparation of the Train Unloading Station at Kramasan, services are temporarily directed to Kertapati.
Coal unloading is carried out through alternative unloading facilities that have been prepared. This arrangement ensures that distribution services continue while the unloading facilities at Kramasan are still under development.
The operation of the Barapati Switching Train is supported by the procurement of 1,125 BM 54 flat wagons. As of mid-July 2026, a total of 1,080 units have been deployed in Palembang to support logistics services in the Southern Sumatra region.
The remaining 45 units are still at PT INKA’s facility in Banyuwangi and will be delivered in stages. The availability of this rolling stock will support the formation of trainsets in accordance with operational requirements and the readiness of partner unloading facilities.
Throughout the first semester of 2026, KAI transported 26,534,095 tons of coal nationwide. This significant volume reflects the role of railways in handling mass commodity distribution through scheduled and high-capacity services.
According to Anne, increasing train capacity also contributes to overall logistics system efficiency. Rail-based distribution supports cargo consolidation, ensures delivery schedule reliability, and reduces the need for large volumes of heavy truck traffic on highways.
“The operation of the Barapati Switching Train, along with the addition of BM 54 flat wagons, strengthens the productivity of KAI’s logistics services in South Sumatra. We continue to coordinate with partners to ensure that capacity enhancements align with the readiness of rolling stock, infrastructure, unloading facilities, and operational safety,” Anne concluded.
VP Corporate Communication KAI