The Jakarta-Bandung high-speed train, also known as Whoosh, has become a preferred mode of transportation for many Indonesians during the Eid homecoming exodus. Since its launch in October 2023, the train has experienced a surge in popularity among passengers, providing a faster and more convenient travel option between Jakarta and Bandung.
One such passenger is Zahra Zalfa Farida, a 26-year-old employee in Jakarta, who is preparing for her sixth trip on the high-speed train back to her hometown in the West Java province. Farida, a frequent traveler on the train, has commended its efficiency, cleanliness, and comfort, highlighting the convenience of its location near her apartment and the time saved on her journey.
Similarly, Aditya Perdana Putra, a 20-year-old university student, has expressed his satisfaction with the high-speed train, emphasizing its comfort and time-efficiency. With the approaching Eid celebration, many travelers like Putra are choosing the high-speed train to facilitate their homecoming trips.
The Eid exodus in Indonesia is a tradition synonymous with gathering with family and relatives. The Indonesian government estimates that around 193 million people will travel to their hometowns during this period, with 28.43 million originating from Greater Jakarta alone. This influx of travelers has led the Ministry of Transportation to anticipate a significant increase in passengers for the Jakarta-Bandung high-speed train during the exodus season.
To accommodate the surge in passengers, PT Kereta Cepat Indonesia China (KCIC) and Indonesia’s state-owned train company PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) have been directed to take preemptive measures. The Ministry of Transportation has urged the addition of feeder trains to increase capacity, while KCIC has committed to deploying hundreds of officers to ensure the safe and comfortable operation of the high-speed trains during the Eid exodus.
The popularity of the Jakarta-Bandung high-speed train underscores the growing demand for efficient and convenient modes of transportation, particularly during festive seasons when travel is at its peak. As Indonesians prepare for their exodus home, the high-speed train has emerged as a reliable and favored choice, offering a seamless and enjoyable travel experience for passengers.
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