Jakarta LRT New Line Integrates into Daily Commutes, Offering Convenience Amidst Challenges

On September 18, 2026, Jakarta saw the commencement of services on the new LRT (Light Rail Transit) line connecting Manggarai to Kelapa Gading, which is gradually being integrated into the daily commutes of its residents. This new segment extends the existing Kelapa Gading-Velodrome route (approximately 5 km) by an additional 6.4 km, introducing five new stations: Rawamangun, Pramuka, Matraman, Proklamasi, and Manggarai. This expansion brings the total length of the LRT Jakarta line to 12.2 km. The new line is expected to significantly reduce travel times, particularly for students with campuses in the Rawamangun area and professionals commuting to Jakarta's city center. Iwan, a 22-year-old university student, commented, "This route passing through Rawamangun is very convenient for getting to my campus. The approximately 30-minute travel time from Manggarai to Kelapa Gading saves me a lot of time." Bondan Prakoso Wijaya, a 33-year-old worker, also noted, "The commute from Rawamangun to Manggarai is much easier now, and my arrival time in the city center is more predictable." The LRT's ability to operate independently of road traffic congestion is a key advantage for commuters who value punctuality. However, passengers have also highlighted several challenges. Iwan pointed out accessibility issues around Manggarai Station, stating, "The pedestrian bridges (JPO) are not yet connected, making the walk from the motorcycle parking to the LRT station quite far." Some users also reported that issues with IC card readers at the gates slow down the boarding and alighting process, leading to longer queues. The construction of the Velodrome-Manggarai segment was undertaken by PT Waskita Karya, with PT Jakarta Propertindo (Jakpro), a regional development company owned by the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government, operating the service. The total investment for this project amounts to Rp 12.1 trillion, which includes trainsets capable of carrying 270 passengers each. The Jakarta Provincial Government aims to transport approximately 80,000 passengers daily via this new LRT line. To encourage ridership during the initial phase, a special promotional fare of Rp 8 has been offered for the first eight days of operation. Manggarai Station is strategically positioned as a vital transportation hub, connecting with the KRL Commuter Line, TransJakarta buses, and the airport train to Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, further enhancing its role in the city's public transit network.