Repeated Train Accident in Blitar Raises Concerns, the East Java DPRD Says Level Crossings Remain High-Risk Hazards
Member of Commission D of the Regional House of Representatives of the Province of East Java (the East Java DPRD), Siadi, stated that the recent railway accident at a level crossing in Blitar City signals the urgent need to strengthen railway safety systems and accelerate the development of grade-separated crossings.
The East Java DPRD: Level Crossings Remain Vulnerable Accident Hotspots
SURABAYA — A series of railway accidents has once again occurred in East Java. The latest incident took place at a level crossing in Blitar City on Tuesday night (28/04/2026), when a sand transport truck was struck by KA 408 Commuterline Dhoho operating on the Surabaya–Malang route.
Although the accident did not result in fatalities, it drew significant public attention as it occurred only around 24 hours after a major collision involving the Argo Bromo Anggrek train and a Commuter Line train in East Bekasi.
Member of Commission D of the East Java DPRD, Siadi, described the consecutive accidents as a serious warning that should not be underestimated.
“This can no longer be regarded as an ordinary incident. Level crossings remain vulnerable points that must be addressed seriously and immediately,” Siadi stressed on Wednesday (29/04/2026).
According to the Golkar Party politician, accidents at level crossings are generally caused by a combination of factors, ranging from road user negligence and limited safety systems to weak on-site supervision.
He emphasized the need for concrete and measurable actions from regional governments, railway operators, and all relevant stakeholders to minimize the risk of similar incidents in the future.
“Safety must become the top priority. Public appeals alone are not enough; there must be systemic improvements, both in infrastructure and public education,” he stated.
Siadi Emphasizes Safety-Oriented Infrastructure Development
Siadi urged the acceleration of grade-separated infrastructure projects such as flyovers and underpasses, particularly at crossings with heavy traffic volume and high accident risk levels.
In addition, he highlighted the importance of modernizing railway crossing security systems, including optimizing automatic gate systems and implementing early warning technologies.
“If left unresolved, incidents like this will continue to recur. This must become a serious concern for all parties,” he said.
According to him, improving railway transportation safety should become a strategic priority agenda for regional governments and transportation stakeholders alike.
Infrastructure Development Must Be Accompanied by Human Resource Development
Beyond infrastructure improvements, Siadi also reminded the public to exercise greater discipline when crossing railway tracks by obeying all traffic signs and warning signals provided.
He stressed that public education on traffic safety and transportation awareness must continue to be strengthened in order to reduce the risk of accidents at level crossings.
