BLITAR – Blitar Regency will build a new railway crossing gate in Wlingi this year as local authorities push to reduce accidents at unguarded train crossings.
Train crossing accidents remain a major concern in Blitar. Several crashes have occurred at level crossings over the past few years. Some incidents caused fatalities and serious injuries. Local officials now want to improve safety before more accidents happen.
The Blitar Transportation Agency confirmed that the Ministry of Transportation has approved the project. Officials are now waiting for the budget allocation before construction starts.
Anjar Juli Admanto, Head of Traffic at the Blitar Transportation Agency, said the crossing gate will stand in Wlingi District within the Daop 8 railway operational area.
“The Ministry of Transportation has issued its recommendation. We only need the budget approval now. After that, we will begin construction immediately,” Anjar said.
The government plans to build both a railway crossing gate and a guard post at the site. The project requires more than Rp 300 million, or around US$18,000, for each location.
Despite tighter spending policies from the central government, the transportation agency still prioritizes the project. Officials aim to secure funding through the regional budget and proposals from the local legislative council.
Blitar Regency still has 19 railway crossings without official gates or guards. Many residents use these crossings every day. Authorities believe the lack of protection increases the risk of accidents, especially in crowded areas.
The transportation agency plans to improve the crossings gradually. Officials say they remain optimistic about completing more safety projects in the coming years.
Authorities have also worked with state railway company KAI to close illegal crossings in several areas. Some unofficial crossings now connect to nearby authorized routes. Officials believe this step can reduce dangerous traffic movements near railway tracks.
“We target the normalization or closure of five to 10 railway crossings this year,” said Blitar Transportation Agency Head Puguh Imam Santoso.
Puguh said railway safety requires support from the public as well. He encouraged residents to report crossings that look dangerous or need urgent attention.
The latest project reflects wider safety concerns across Indonesia. Many regions still face problems with unguarded railway crossings, especially in areas with growing traffic and limited infrastructure.
Local authorities in Blitar hope the new crossing gate in Wlingi will help prevent future accidents and improve road safety for residents.