Padang - Balai Teknik Perkeretaapian Kelas II Padang, through its Sawahlunto Service Unit (Satpel), recently identified five potential illegal construction sites along the KM 135+000-KM 148+163 stretch. These sites were discovered during a routine survey of unauthorized buildings within their jurisdiction.

"BTP Padang, through the Sawahlunto Service Unit, regularly monitors railway infrastructure to secure and address issues related to inactive railway sections in our area. During this monitoring, we found five locations where illegal construction is taking place in areas not designated for such use," said the BTP Padang chief.

BTP Padang is committed to ensuring the safety and integrity of the railway infrastructure and preventing any encroachment that could disrupt railway operations and future development. "We have coordinated with local government authorities and the police to work together to protect these railway corridors from illegal use that could hinder the development of the rail network in the area," he added.

As part of the follow-up to this discovery, BTP Padang will install warning banners to prevent further illegal construction on these sites and to emphasize the importance of maintaining clear zones for railway operations.

It's important to note that under the Indonesian Criminal Code (KUHP), specifically Articles 167 and 389, as well as Article 192 of Law No. 23/2007 on Railways, violations of these regulations can result in criminal penalties. Violators could face imprisonment of up to six years and fines of up to Rp 2 billion.

BTP Padang's proactive efforts are an important part of maintaining the safety and functionality of the railway network while ensuring that land use along railway corridors complies with legal requirements.