Kites Continue to Threaten Whoosh High-Speed Train Operations

Kite flying remains a persistent hazard for Indonesia's Whoosh high-speed train, disrupting its services between Jakarta and Bandung. PT KCIC, the operator, reports monthly incidents caused by kites, particularly in the Padalarang to Bandung section of the route.

Manager of Corporate Communication at KCIC, Emir Monti, stated that the risk of disruption increases during school holidays and the dry season. "We see the potential for danger and disruption to Whoosh services due to kites," Monti said. These incidents often occur in the afternoon, even when kites are flown several kilometers away from the tracks. A broken kite string, carried by the wind, can easily reach the train's path and interfere with the overhead power lines.

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Yes, regarding kites, as school holidays and the dry season approach, we see the potential for danger and disruption to Whoosh services due to kites.

To ensure passenger safety, the Whoosh train has had to make sudden stops when these disruptions occur. KCIC is intensifying its efforts to address the issue, especially as the number of kite-flying activities is expected to rise with the approaching school break and drier weather. The company is working to prevent such occurrences and minimize delays, aiming to maintain the reliability of the high-speed rail service.

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Then many cases happen in the afternoon, even though they play 2 kilometers from the high-speed train line. But when the kite breaks with the string dangling, it is carried by the wind and enters the Whoosh line.