The streets of Jakarta are said to be among the most congested in the world. Authorities believe trains can ease the problem, and Japan is helping to get their plans on track.
Officials in the Indonesian city held a groundbreaking ceremony on Wednesday for a new railway line. It’ll stretch almost 25 kilometers from east to west. President Joko Widodo was there, and so was Japan’s ambassador.
Indonesia’s first subway, running north to south, opened in 2019. Japan provided funds and technical support then, and is doing the same now.
President Joko said the North-South Line has completely transformed Jakarta, adding that the city will have a modern transportation system in the truest sense when construction of the whole railway network is complete.
Officials with the Japan International Cooperation Agency say they’re helping to build an underground section measuring more than 9 kilometers. Construction is expected to begin later next year.
Japanese Ambassador to Indonesia Masaki Yasushi said the railway network will greatly contribute to the continuous growth and development of Jakarta.
The new line will eventually run more than 80 kilometers, connecting Jakarta with neighboring provinces.