Gov’t Launches Special Trains to Enhance Rural-Urban Market Access

President Prabowo Subianto inspects special trains for farmers and traders during a visit to Manggarai Station, Jakarta, Tuesday (11/4).

Amid the rapid development of national transportation infrastructure, the Government has introduced special trains dedicated to farmers and traders.

The new initiative is designed not only as a mode of transportation but also as a vital link to support the faster, more affordable, and efficient distribution of agricultural products from rural areas to markets, in line with President Prabowo Subianto’s administration’s commitment to bringing economic equality from the grassroots level.

Through Ministry of Transportation and state-owned train manufacturer PT Kereta Api Indonesia, the People’s Logistics Route has been developed as part of efforts to strengthen the national supply chain and reduce price disparities between rural and urban areas.

By utilizing the existing railway network, these special trains for farmers and traders offer an efficient, environmentally friendly, and people-oriented transportation solution.

During his visit to Manggarai Station on Tuesday (11/4), the President personally inspected the special train. The service not only carries passengers but also transports agricultural produce, merchandise, and daily necessities.

On that occasion, the Head of State explained that this new facility will help ease the burden on farmers and traders in distributing their agricultural and business goods.

Equipped with special carriages designed to carry fresh produce such as vegetables, fruits, and other farm products, the service is expected to reduce distribution costs while maintaining product quality upon arrival at urban markets.

“Yes, I checked. So, they only pay for themselves. They don’t have to pay for their goods. The seats are side-by-side. The fare has likely already been set,” the President said after inaugurating the Tanah Abang Baru Station on the same day.

For the record, the initiative is part of the Government’s ongoing efforts to develop an efficient and equitable logistics system so that all members of society have access to safe, affordable, and reliable public facilities.

The special train for farmers and traders will operate on routes to areas such as Rangkasbitung, Serang, and Merak, which are key corridors connecting agricultural centers with major trade areas.

The launch of this service is expected to mark an important milestone in strengthening food security and improving the welfare of small-scale businesses across various regions.

More than just a transportation program, the initiative reflects the commitment of President Prabowo Subianto’s administration to ensure that national transportation development continues to serve the people, the backbone of Indonesia’s economy. (BPMI of Presidential Secretariat) (RIF/EP)