BLITAR – Railway level crossing safety is tightening in Blitar as authorities accelerate closures of unguarded crossings after repeated fatal crashes on local rail lines.

State rail operator Kereta Api Indonesia and local governments are closing illegal crossings that expose road users to direct train traffic. So far in 2025, officials have recorded 24 accidents across the Daop 7 Madiun region.

Recently, a motorcyclist died at an unguarded crossing in Ngaglik village, Srengat district. The rider reportedly used a phone and failed to see an approaching train. As a result, the collision proved fatal.

Therefore, rail and transport teams closed crossing JPL 203 at kilometer 125+8/9 in Sanankulon village. Joint units from Daop 7 Madiun and Blitar maintenance crews sealed the route with permanent posts and rail barriers. Consequently, vehicles can no longer access the crossing.

“The closure began with a safety briefing and continued with permanent staking and rail barriers,” said Tohari, public relations manager at KAI Daop 7 Madiun.

The decision followed coordination with the East Java rail engineering office, Blitar transport agency, and local traffic police. Because the site lacked gates and guards, officials classified it as high risk.

“This preventive step protects residents near the tracks and road users while reducing disruption to trains,” Tohari said.

Meanwhile, authorities stressed that closures follow national rail and traffic laws. Regulations require road users to give priority to trains and discourage level crossings wherever possible. In addition, violations can bring up to three months in jail or a fine of 750,000 rupiah.

Officials said most incidents stem from human error. For example, drivers often ignore signals or force passage when trains approach. Therefore, enforcement and infrastructure changes remain essential.

KAI urged residents to support closures and use only authorized crossings with proper safety systems. With safer infrastructure and stronger compliance, officials expect fewer rail accidents in Blitar and across Daop 7 Madiun.

“With public cooperation, people can travel more safely in daily mobility,” Tohari said.