RADAR BLITAR – Authorities have introduced a 30 percent train ticket discount ahead of Eid al-Fitr to ease travel expenses during Indonesia’s annual homecoming season. The policy targets peak mudik travel, when millions journey back to their hometowns.
The discount applies to rail departures scheduled between March 14 and March 29, 2026. During this period, passenger traffic traditionally surges across major routes, including East Java.
Officials say the measure aims to stabilize travel demand while protecting household purchasing power. At the same time, the program seeks to support local economic activity during the festive period.
Tohari, Public Relations Manager of PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) Daop 7 Madiun, said transport authorities designed the stimulus to maintain orderly mobility during the holiday rush.
“This policy not only supports smoother travel ahead of Eid, but also encourages economic circulation during the mudik and return flow,” he said.
Authorities began offering the discounted tickets in phases starting February 11. Passengers can access the promotion exclusively through official sales platforms to prevent ticket fraud and ensure fair distribution.
“We encourage customers to book early and use official sales channels,” Tohari added.
The fare reduction covers selected train services within the eligible travel window. However, seats remain subject to availability, particularly on high-demand routes.
Blitar Station, one of the main boarding points in Blitar City, is expected to experience a notable rise in passenger traffic. The station routinely serves as a key departure and arrival hub during the Lebaran season.
In response to anticipated demand, KAI Daop 7 Madiun has prepared additional train services for the Lebaran transport period. These extra trips aim to expand travel capacity and reduce congestion.
Passengers can book tickets for the additional services through official platforms, including the Access by KAI application. Sales opened at 12:01 a.m. local time on February 11, 2026.
By increasing capacity early, railway operators hope to distribute passenger flows more evenly across the travel window. This strategy also reduces the risk of overcrowding at stations.
Ticket sales already indicate strong public interest. As of February 10, KAI Daop 7 Madiun had sold 35,569 regular tickets for departures between March 11 and March 27.
Despite the early spike, ticket availability remains relatively wide across several routes. Officials therefore advise travelers to secure their seats as soon as possible.
The 30 percent train ticket discount forms part of a broader strategy to maintain travel stability during one of the busiest mobility periods of the year. With demand rising steadily, transport authorities continue to monitor bookings and adjust capacity where necessary.
Through this initiative, officials aim to ensure safer, more affordable, and more organized Eid travel across Indonesia’s rail network.