Padang - Not many people know that in addition to the Mak Itam Train, which currently operates as a tourist train in Sawahlunto, West Sumatra also has three other passenger trains that operate in three regions: the city of Padang, the city of Pariaman, and the regency of Padang Pariaman. These three trains are the KA Lembah Anai, KA Pariaman Ekspres and KA Minangkabau Ekspres.

Of these three trains, the KA Lembah Anai offers the cheapest ticket price compared to the other two. For just Rp3,000, passengers can enjoy a trip from Kayutanam station to Duku station, a distance of around 34 kilometres.

It is important to note that KA Lembah Anai, which used to operate a railbus from Kayutanam Station to Minangkabau International Airport Station (round trip), is currently undergoing repairs. As a result, it has been replaced by a replacement train that only runs between Kayutanam Station and Duku Station.

This train is one of the kereta api perintis (pioneer trains) required by Law No. 23/2007 on Railways. In this case, the costs incurred by the railway operator, PT KAI (Persero) Divre II Sumbar, to operate the service are higher than the revenue generated by the government-set fare. As a result, the difference is covered by the government as part of the pioneer transport subsidy.

With a fare of just Rp3.000, the KA Lembah Anai passes through three stations before reaching Duku Station in Batang Anai, Padang Pariaman Regency. These stations are Sicincin Station, Lubuk Alung Station and Pasar Usang Station.

In addition to enjoying a safe and comfortable journey free from traffic congestion, passengers on board the KA Lembah Anai - named after a waterfall tourist spot that is a symbol of tourism in West Sumatra - will also experience the added attraction of scenic views that remain lush and pristine, a hallmark of the region, from inside the train.

Public Relations of the Padang Railway Engineering Center