Signal and communication failures were the primary cause of a deadly train collision near Jakarta in April that killed 16 people, according to a report by Indonesia's Transportation Safety Committee. The collision occurred between a commuter train and a long-distance train in Bekasi.
Failures in signalling and communication systems can have catastrophic consequences in transportation, leading to loss of life and significant injuries. This incident underscores the critical importance of robust safety protocols, clear communication channels, and adequate training for train operators to prevent similar tragedies.
Indonesian investigators have identified signal and communication issues as the primary cause of a fatal train collision that occurred in April near the capital, Jakarta. The accident, which resulted in 16 fatalities and 107 injuries, involved a commuter train and a long-distance train in Bekasi.
According to a report from the Transportation Safety Committee, the commuter train had been involved in a prior incident with an electric taxi, causing it to stop at a crossing. A signalling fault between Bekasi and Bekasi Timur stations meant the long-distance train proceeded on a green departure signal without additional warnings. The report stated the driver did not receive a yellow signal indicating the next signal ahead was red.
Furthermore, the operation control centre experienced a delay of three minutes and 20 seconds in receiving information from the commuter train driver about the earlier incident, with communication difficulties hindering clarity. The report also noted that the driver of the long-distance train had not received training in emergency braking procedures. Poor visibility of signals due to light pollution and damaged windshields were also highlighted as contributing factors.
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