Palembang – The Directorate of Infrastructure (Dirpras) of the Ministry of Transportation (Kemenhub) conducted a working visit to the Light Rail Transit (LRT) of South Sumatra to discuss important issues regarding the acceleration of Infrastructure Maintenance and Operation (IMO) on Friday (October 18). This visit represents a strategic step by the government to ensure the operational sustainability of LRT South Sumatra, which has become a key mode of transportation in the region since its launch. The acceleration of contracts and maintenance work was a primary focus of discussions between Kemenhub and the management of LRT South Sumatra.

The LRT South Sumatra, which began operations in 2018 to support the Asian Games, has served as a mass transportation system connecting several strategic points in Palembang. However, as time progresses, the operational sustainability of the LRT requires intensive and structured maintenance to ensure optimal service. This highlights the importance of accelerating the contract process and implementing the IMO maintenance program, a priority for the Directorate of Infrastructure.

According to Catur Wicaksono, the Head of the Regional Route and Building Subdirectorate II, who led the visit, delays in maintenance processes can directly impact the operational performance of the LRT and the comfort of users. “We cannot delay any longer. The maintenance process must be accelerated, both in terms of contracts and on-site implementation,” he stated.

He further explained that this acceleration involves not just technical aspects but also administrative processes, such as signing contracts with PT KAI, the maintenance service provider. Kemenhub hopes that LRT South Sumatra can complete these processes soon so that necessary maintenance can proceed smoothly without bureaucratic obstacles.

In addition to contracts, physical maintenance work was also a focus of discussion. The Kemenhub team encouraged that maintenance be conducted not only periodically but also through more effective and faster mechanisms. During the meeting, the application of new technology to monitor the LRT infrastructure in real time was also discussed, allowing for more proactive repairs.

A key point discussed was the urgency of routine maintenance for the LRT. Modern transportation infrastructure like the LRT has high technical complexity, making scheduled and planned maintenance crucial to prevent damage that could disrupt operations.

Kemenhub recommended that LRT South Sumatra involve professional experts in the maintenance implementation, including adherence to international safety and operational efficiency standards. Additionally, training for the local workforce was highlighted as an important agenda to ensure they possess adequate skills for maintenance tasks.

This visit from the Directorate of Infrastructure also marked an important moment for enhancing collaboration between the central government and the management of LRT South Sumatra. The government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting efficient and sustainable public transport management in the region, including through technical assistance and oversight of applicable operational standards.

Furthermore, the government will ensure that the budget for maintaining the LRT infrastructure is allocated appropriately and sufficiently, aimed at ensuring the smooth execution of maintenance that meets operational needs.

Meanwhile, the Head of the South Sumatra Light Rail Management Center (BPKARSS), Rode Paulus, mentioned several pending issues that require attention. These include ongoing contract preparations and the establishment of Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for maintenance work.

These challenges have also been communicated to the Ministry of Transportation for resolution. “We have been directed to coordinate with PT. KAI to promptly formulate the necessary policies, considering that the implementation of IMO is needed for the long-term maintenance of the facilities,” Rode said.