Since commencing operations on 17th October 2023, the Whoosh bullet train has successfully catered to 1,028,216 passengers until 25th December 2023. Dwiyana Slamet Riyadi, the Main Director of PT KCIC (Indonesia-China Fast Train), emphasized that this remarkable achievement highlights the significant interest among Indonesians in modern, highly time-efficient public transportation.
A survey conducted by KCIC revealed that 48% of Whoosh bullet train passengers were former private car users. This data serves as evidence that many individuals are transitioning from private vehicles to environmentally friendlier public transportation options.
The Whoosh bullet train’s impact as a link between Jakarta and Bandung significantly contributes to the tourism sector. KCIC remains dedicated to enhancing comfort and continually assessing all Whoosh facilities.
Erick Thohir, the Minister of State-Owned Enterprises (BUMN), highlighted Whoosh’s effectiveness in travel due to its 99% punctuality. “If someone doubts Whoosh’s effectiveness, just take a look now. People are increasingly believing in it. In two months, we’ve seen over a million passengers. This demonstrates its immense benefits,” stated Erick Thohir in Jakarta (28/12/2023).
The successful Jakarta-Bandung Whoosh high-speed train venture will pave the way for the next ambitious project: the Jakarta-Surabaya route, covering a distance in just 2 hours. Budi Karya Sumadi, Indonesian Minister of Transportation, expressed intentions to implement the Whoosh Bullet Train soon, utilizing a creative financing system.
The plan entails attracting investors to join this rapid train project, aiming to link both ends of Java Island. The objective is to cover the 900 km distance between Jakarta and Surabaya in a mere 2 hours.
According to KCIC records, the current Whoosh high-speed train can accommodate up to 21,500 passengers per day, with the potential for even higher capacity during extended holiday periods.